Andy Murray pulls out of Australian Open

Andy Murray has pulled out of the Australian Open due to an ongoing hip injury.

The 30-year-old Briton made the news after withdrawing from the Brisbane International and posting an emotional message on Instagram, where he stated surgery may be considered.

The three-time Grand Slam champion plummeted down the world rankings from first to 16th, having not played since July when he lost in a five-set defeat by Sam Querrey at Wimbledon.

Joanna Konta, women’s number one for Britain, retired during a quarter-final tie in Brisbane, requiring treatment on her right hip during a deciding set.

The 26-year-old is to be assessed but has said she is focussing on defending her Sydney International title next week, maintaining hopes that the injury will not rule her out for the Australian Open, the first Grand Slam of the year.

The Australian Open begins on 15 January.