It’s been harder than ever to come back

London : Andy Murray has revealed that his recovery from his hip injury has been harder than any previous fitness issues in his career.

Murray, 30, is expected to make his first appearance since Wimbledon when he competes at the Challenger Tour event in Glasgow at the end of the month. But the former world number one has admitted that coming back from his latest injury has been far harder than any other recovery in his career.

“This time has been harder. There’s been a lot more ups and downs this time. It’s been longer and a lot more complex than the back issue,” Murray said.

“Having been through a back injury and a difficult surgery before helps, but the back injury was easier because I was back on the court competing quite soon afterwards.

“I will enjoy it more (returning to action). I think when you go through an injury like this you realise how much you miss playing, how important it is to you.”

Murray’s injury absence has been the longest of his career, and the two-time Wimbledon champion says he has missed the thrill of competition.

“I like pressure, I miss that, something that you don’t get in day-to-day life, something that I’ve had as part of my life for 13, 14 years since I became a pro,” Murray said. “I miss that, I miss the competition.

“You never quite know what’s around the corner. I certainly never anticipated something like this, so I certainly won’t take anything for granted when I come back.”