Andy Murray, the former world number one and three-time Grand Slam champion, brought his illustrious tennis career to an emotional end at the Paris Olympics on Thursday. The 37-year-old Scot and his partner Dan Evans were defeated in the men's doubles quarter-finals by American pair Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul, who won 6-2, 6-4 on a packed Court Suzanne Lenglen.

Having announced that the Olympics would be his final event, Murray reflected on his career and achievements. "I'm proud of my career, my achievements, and what I put into the sport," Murray said. "Obviously, it was emotional because it's the last time I will play a competitive match. But I am genuinely happy just now. I'm happy with how it finished."

Murray expressed his satisfaction at retiring on his own terms: "I'm glad I got to go out here at the Olympics and finish on my terms because at times in the last few years that wasn't a certainty." He later posted humorously on social media, "Never even liked tennis anyway."

Novak Djokovic, a career-long rival, described Murray as "an incredible competitor" and praised his fighting spirit, saying it would inspire future generations.

Murray's retirement marks the end of another chapter in tennis's golden generation, joining Roger Federer, who retired in 2022. Rafael Nadal, also 38 and battling injuries, exited the Paris Olympics and hinted at his own possible retirement, leaving Djokovic as the last active member of the 'Big Four.'

Murray's career highlights include ending Britain's 77-year wait for a men's champion at Wimbledon in 2013, winning two Wimbledon titles, and securing the US Open in 2012. He made history by winning two Olympic singles golds and led Britain to the Davis Cup title in 2015.

Despite recent injuries and a metal hip since 2019, Murray remained competitive, though he acknowledged the physical toll. "Physically it is too tough now, all of the injuries, they have added up and they haven't been insignificant," he admitted.

The future of men's tennis looks bright with emerging talents like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, who have already made significant strides in the sport. Alcaraz, paying tribute to Murray, wrote, "It was a privilege to share the court with you, Andy! Congratulations on a legendary career and for being an example to all. You will always have a fan here."