Andy Murray has undergone hip resurfacing surgery in an attempt to prolong his career.
The three-time Grand Slam champion had the operation in London on Monday, he announced on Instagram.
It does not guarantee the Scot will be able to make a comeback, but will allow him to live a pain-free life.
Murray said on Instagram: “I underwent a hip resurfacing surgery in London yesterday morning… feeling a bit battered and bruised just now but hopefully that will be the end of my hip pain.
“I now have a metal hip.”
The 31-year-old had previously said ahead of the Australian Open earlier this month that he intended to retire after this year’s Wimbledon.
He went on to lose in five sets to Roberto Bautista Agut in an epic first round clash before suggesting he could yet play on.
Murray, the former world number one, has been battling hip problems for a number of years and spent 11 months out of the sport between 2017-2018.
He made a long-awaited comeback at Queen’s last summer but pulled out of Wimbledon and struggled to play matches.
It was hoped an extensive rehabilitation period in Philadelphia, followed by a gruelling pre-season stint in Miami might prove the answer, but Murray was still in significant pain on the court.
Now has has decided to undergo a second round of surgery on his troublesome hip joint, 12 months after the first one, which did not solve the issue.
Murray will go through an extensive rehabilitation process to see if he can play again.
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The ATP Tour tweeted their support for Murray.
A post on Tuesday morning read: “Yesterday @andy_murray underwent hip resurfacing surgery in London.
“Get well soon Andy, we know you will do everything to get back on tour! ?? #GetwellsoonAndyMurray.”
British Tennis also sent out a tweet in support for Murray.
It read: “Good luck in your recovery from hip resurfacing surgery Andy! ?? ?? @andy_murray #GetwellsoonAndyMurray.”
Source: TalkSport.com Tennis