Andy Murray to skip Rogers Cup 2016

Andy Murray, the world No. 2, has reportedly pulled out of the Rogers Cup to be scheduled for this month’s end.

Tennis Canada, the association for Tennis in Canada, has announced that the Wimbledon champion will not attend it’s 2016 edition. This will mark the first time since 2006 when Andy Murray skips the Canadian Open equivalent of the Grand Slams. The 3-time champion has stated “recovery” as the cause for pulling out of the tournament. The decision comes days before the Rio Olympics as Rogers Cup ends on 31st July, a week before The Olympics commence on 6th of August.

Rogers Cup is a Masters 1000 event that’s among the few ATP titles around the year. An official from the Open said: “Andy has been very loyal to our event over the years, but certainly we are disappointed that he has chosen not to be in Toronto this year. As a Masters 1000 event, we are one of the most important tournaments on the calendar. Andy is one of the very top players in the world and a fan favourite. He will be missed but we wish him continued success through the balance of the season.”

The events alternate from year to year between the cities of Montreal and Toronto. During odd-years, the men’s tournament is held in Montreal, while the women’s tournament is held in Toronto, and vice-versa. The Toronto tournament is held at the Aviva Court, York University, and the Montreal tournament is held at the Stade Uniprix.

Andy Murray is speculated to prepare for his bid at the Rio Olympics 2016, where he attempts to win his 2nd gold medal after beating Roger Federer in 2012 London Olympics. Andy Murray was quoted saying: “My body needs some recovery time after reaching the latter stages of tournaments over the past few months.” Murray apologized to his fans in Toronto and has promised to play the 2017 event next year.