For more than two decades, Sir Andy Murray was known for his determination on the tennis court, becoming one of Britain's greatest sporting icons with his historic Wimbledon triumphs. But since retiring from professional tennis, the three-time Grand Slam champion has embraced a quieter pace of life, focusing on family and enjoying time away from the demands of the tour.
While the fierce competitor still lingers within him, the sportsman's focus has profoundly shifted from Grand Slams to the beautiful chaos of home life with his wife, Kim, their four children, and the family dog.
"I'm loving it," he revealed in a new interview with HELLO!, reflecting on the transition away from professional sports. "It's the best part of being retired from tennis. I was away so much of my career and always really missed my family, so I love being able to be part of their day-to-day life now."
For a man who spent his youth in high-pressure environments, his current schedule looks refreshingly ordinary. "I go to as many things as I can with the children - the school run, sports matches, chess club - it's brilliant," he said. "I know I'm very fortunate to be able to do it now."
When asked what a perfect, "offline" family day looks like for the Murrays these days, he offered a wholesome glimpse into their household. "Well, it's always fairly chaotic, with four children and a dog," he shared.
© Getty Images"Mainly, we all like being outside, doing something active together. Often it's just going for a walk in the woods with the dog, or kicking a ball around in the garden, something simple we can all do together."
Royalty and icons on the grass
Despite his peaceful domestic life, Andy's bond with the sport - and SW19 - remains unbreakable. As the All England Club prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary, plans are underway to permanently cement the star's legacy with a life-size bronze statue.
"Well, it's a huge honour and I'm very grateful to the All England Club for honouring my career in this way," Andy admits.
"I've already met with the sculptor a few times and it's been quite a fun process working with him on the early stages of the statue. I was a bit nervous it wouldn't look like me, but I'm really happy with what I've seen so far."
© Walker's ShortbreadOver the years, Andy's Wimbledon journey has played out in front of the world's most famous faces, including the Princess of Wales, whom he has met several times.
Recalling the recent afternoon he spent watching British player Katie Swan take on Madison Keys alongside the Princess during Wimbledon, he shared: "Yes, it was a fun afternoon. She is definitely a tennis fan and she plays a bit herself, I think.
"I think she also plays padel. We watched the Katie Swan and Madison Keys match, so it was good to be watching a British player together."
© GettyFor Andy, the royal family's presence at Wimbledon is an important part of the tournament's identity. "I think it means a lot to the players and to tennis fans to see the Royal family at Wimbledon," he explained. "It's part of the tradition of Wimbledon and the fans really like that, especially the overseas fans."
Of course, the Princess of Wales isn't the only high-profile figure Andy has shared a court with. One of the most memorable moments of his career came when he teamed up with Serena Williams in mixed doubles, a partnership that quickly became a fan favourite.
With Serena recently returning to competitive tennis, Andy reflected fondly on their time playing together. "The thing that I was blown away by was the power of her serve - you don't see a serve like that often in mixed doubles," he remarked. "I was glad I was on her side of the net!"
© Getty ImagesHearing of her drive to play again came as no surprise to him. "I think it’s brilliant for tennis that she’s back on court," he said supportively. "She told me she really missed playing, every single day, so if that’s the case and she wants to come back, I think it’s great she’s able to do it."
Learning to be a spectator
Now that he is watching from the sidelines rather than grinding out five-set thrillers, Andy has a newfound empathy for the crowd - and a few thoughts on spectator etiquette. His recent work as Walker's Shortbread's "Spectator Coach" focuses on the fine art of "silent snacking," a concept he takes surprisingly seriously after years of on-court distractions.
© Walker's Shortbread"You get all sorts of things," he noted of his time on the baseline. "Most people don't realise they are distracting the players, but calling out when you are playing a point is hard, as sometimes you mishear and think it's the umpire calling a ball out. There are lots of things though so it's been fun being Walker's Shortbread's Spectator Coach so I can help fans (and players) get the best experience."
If he could introduce one definitive new rule for the polite Wimbledon crowd, it would actually be a rule of emotional support. "Backing the underdog," he said. "There's a brilliant energy when the crowd gets behind someone who is struggling and supports them back into the match."
© Getty ImagesAnd as for the snacking? "And if you are backing the underdog, I would advise the crowd to make sure their snack choice is appropriate - if you absolutely can't wait for the changeover to eat, you should stick to silent food only, like strawberries and cream or Walker’s Shortbread. It's quiet, it's Scottish, and it won't ruin a comeback."
Of course, Andy has been keeping a close eye on this year's Championships and says he has been particularly impressed by British rising star Arthur Fery, who reached the men's semi-finals. "I can empathise with his fighting spirit and how he's used the home crowd's energy to help him win matches," he added.
When asked how he hopes history will remember him, Andy takes a moment to think before answering with his trademark self-deprecating humour. "That’s a difficult question," he said. "Mainly, I just hope they find something nice to say!"
