Reuters – Men’s world number one tennis player Novak Djokovic paid tribute to rival Andy Murray on Friday (January 11) upon hearing the news that the Scot planned to retire this year.

A teary-eyed Murray earlier on Friday signaled the Australian Open could be his last professional tournament, with the pain of his right hip proving unbearable.

Djokovic said it had been sad to see Murray suffer through his injuries, as the pair had risen through the junior ranks together.  The 14-time grand slam champion is the favourite to claim what would be a record seventh Australian Open title, which begins on Monday (January 14).

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