Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray of Britain signaled that his career is now in the final stages by defeating Denis Shapovalov in three sets in the first round of the Dubai Tennis Championships. Murray defeated Shapovalov 4–6, 7–6(5), 6–3 after losing the first set. This was his 500th win on hard court. After winning the first round match, Murray said, “I still love to compete and still have the passion for the game, but with age, it is becoming harder to challenge the youth and keep the body in good shape. “
I may not have much time left but I want to do the best I can in the last months. Andy Murray has considered retirement before. Apart from Murray, Roger Federer (783), Novak Djokovic (700), Andre Agassi (592) and Rafael Nadal (518) have recorded more than 500 wins on hardcourts in the Open era. This is only Murray's second win this year.