Andy Murray shares a special message for Dan Evans after ATP’s surprising comment
Andy Murray shared a heartfelt message for Dan Evans after he officially announced his retirement from professional tennis.
Evans decided to step away from the sport after he and Henry Searle lost in the first round of the men’s doubles. The wildcard team were beaten in straight sets, 6-2 and 6-4, by Edouard Roger-Vasselin and Hugo Nys on Court 15.
At 36 years old, Evans—who reached as high as 21st in the world just three years ago—was not only upset about losing in his final Grand Slam match but also frustrated about being left out of the Wimbledon singles.
He criticized the ATP for not explaining why he was snubbed, saying they “didn’t have the guts” to give him a reason. “I just don’t understand it, and nobody’s given me a proper answer,” he said. “If they told me I was out of shape or a bit overweight, I could deal with that. But I haven’t even got that. It feels like it’s about pride or something.”
Evans is a well-respected player, known for helping Great Britain win the 2015 Davis Cup alongside Andy Murray. The two also played together in the World Cup of Tennis and were side by side when Murray played his final match at the Paris Games.
So it was no surprise when Murray praised his friend and former teammate for an amazing career. “He’s an unbelievably talented guy,” Murray told the LTA. “Very competitive and loves to play. Evo has a good heart and really cares about British tennis. He’s been a big part of the Davis Cup teams over the years and done really well. His style is a bit old-school compared to today’s game, which makes him fun to watch.”
It’s clear Evans feels a bit let down by the Wimbledon singles decision, but now all eyes are on what he plans to do next. He’s already started giving back, training with Britain’s 2023 Wimbledon Junior Boys’ singles champion, Henry Searle.
“I want to help someone from my background,” Evans said. “There’s something about Henry that excites me, and I think he has a good chance.”
If Searle follows Evans’ advice, he’s sure to have a bright future in tennis.