Three-time major winner and former world number one, Andy Murray, has withdrawn from the Davis Cup finals due to a minor shoulder injury, creating a void in what could have been a high-profile clash against Novak Djokovic.
In a statement quoted by the ITF on X (formerly Twitter), the 36-year-old British tennis star expressed disappointment about missing the Davis Cup, saying, "I have picked up a minor shoulder injury, which means I won't be able to take part in the Davis Cup."
He added, "I'm gutted not to be able to be part of the squad, but my focus is now on rehab and getting ready for the new season."
The withdrawal comes as a setback for the British team, as they are set to face Novak Djokovic's Serbia in the quarter-finals of the Davis Cup in Malaga during the November 21–28 final phase.
Murray, who led Britain to a Davis Cup victory in 2015, highlighted his commitment to rehabilitation and preparing for the upcoming season. The absence of the former world number one deprives the tournament of a much-anticipated clash between Murray and Djokovic, two stalwarts of the tennis world.
As Britain prepares to take on Serbia, other quarter-final matchups include defending champions Canada against Finland, the Czech Republic against Australia, and Italy facing the Netherlands. The Davis Cup, known for its intense national team competition, will miss the presence of Murray, who has been a key figure in previous editions of the tournament.