Andy and Jamie Murray beaten in emotional Centre Court doubles clash

Andy Murray was given a hero’s reception as he began his final Wimbledon alongside his brother Jamie but the Centre Court crowd could not inspire them to victory.

Playing together in men’s doubles at the All England Club for the first time, the pair had hoped to write a memorable last chapter in an incredible story.

But the two-time former singles champion and seven-time grand slam doubles champion Jamie were beaten 7-6 (6) 6-4 by Australian duo Rinky Hijikata and John Peers.

In a video published by Wimbledon earlier, Murray was filmed writing a postcard to himself as a wild-haired teenager about to make his first appearance.

“Number one: Get a haircut. Number two: Get some clothes that fit. And three: Try to enjoy it, it will be gone before you know it,” he wrote.

Nearly 20 years later, Murray’s final rodeo on the most important stage of all has arrived. Denied the chance to play singles by his troublesome back, the Scot fittingly signed up for a fraternal pairing before adding mixed doubles with Emma Raducanu.

“Dear Andy...” ✍️ @andy_murray pens a note to his younger self, with some advice for his Wimbledon debut ✨#Wimbledon #WithAmex pic.twitter.com/WMJm9AvkO1

— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 4, 2024

The excitement fizzing around Centre Court was reminiscent of the atmosphere before a final rather than a first-round doubles match, which are usually relegated to the outside courts in the gloaming.

The brothers’ father Willie made a rare appearance in their support box along with mother Judy, Andy’s wife Kim and his oldest two daughters, eight-year-old Sophia and six-year-old Edie.

As the doors opened to welcome the players on to the court, the packed crowd rose together to acclaim the two-time singles champion.

The tennis