Earlier this week, Andy Murray expressed his heartbreak over the passing of his beloved dog, Rusty.
The retired tennis star, who stepped away from the sport earlier this year at the Paris Olympic Games, shared a heartfelt tribute to his border terrier on Instagram. According to The Mirror, Murray and his wife Kim had Rusty since 2011. This loss comes just two years after the passing of another cherished border terrier, Maggie May.
“You were the most loyal and protective companion our family could have wished for,” Murray wrote in his tribute. “You were so patient and gentle with the kids, and we all learned so much from you.”
Rusty’s name was inspired by Murray’s admiration for former tennis world No. 1 Lleyton Hewitt, who was nicknamed “Rusty” after a character from the National Lampoon film series.
Reflecting on Rusty’s absence, Murray added, “The house feels empty without you in it. The noise you made when you wanted a plate to lick, a biscuit to chew on, or anything at all was infuriating at times! But today, we’d do anything to hear it again.”
On a professional note, Murray is preparing to return to the tennis world, taking on a new role as Novak Djokovic’s coach for the upcoming Australian Open. This marks his first coaching experience, with the pair beginning their collaboration during the off-season.
Nenad Zimonjić, a close friend and mentor of Djokovic, expressed optimism about the partnership in a recent interview with Ubitennis. “They’ve known each other for years, playing together or against each other since they were kids,” he said. “Tactically, Andy was one of the best. He can offer a fresh perspective and unique insights.”
Murray’s illustrious tennis career includes 46 ATP titles and over $64 million in prize earnings.
