Andy Murray shares devastating family news - 'The house feels empty without you in it'

Andy Murray has shared a devastating personal update for his family, and has received a huge number of messages of support following a heartfelt tribute. The newly announced coach for Novak Djokovic posted a photo of his family's beloved dog along with the heartbreaking announcement it has died.

Writing on Instagram, alongside of a photo of the family's dog, Andy shared: "You were the most loyal and protective companion our family could have wished for. You were so patient and gentle with the kids and we all learned so much from you."

Andy continued: "The house feels empty without you in it. The noise you made when you wanted a plate to lick or a biscuit to chew on or when you wanted anything for that matter was infuriating at times! but today we would do anything to hear it again [heartbroken emoji] love you ruzz rest easy poppet."

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There was plenty of sympathy for Andy and his family among the comments on his post. One person commiserated with the tennis star, writing: "The worst part of owning a pet is the final goodbye." Another agreed, adding: "The saddest thing in life is losing a sweet loyal friend." A third reacted to the heartbreaking news, commenting: "Thinking of you! Nothing beats the love of a border terrier. They are the best. So sorry for your loss".

Andy has previously spoken about the impact that his dogs have had on him during his tennis career. In 2021, he spoke to PetsPyjamas and said they were his biggest supporters, no matter what the result was on the court. Andy said: "Sometimes I find it hard to unwind after a match or if I've have a particularly tough training day, but I love taking them for walks or throwing a ball for them in the garden, or even just sitting with them on the sofa - I find that it helps me relax."

Andy, who announced his retirement from tennis this summer, already lost his first border terrier Maggie in 2022 after 14 years and is now grieving again. Andy and wife Kim had Rusty since 2011 and had only recently warned pet owners to "give your pets a big cuddle tonight because it stings when you can't anymore" after the loss of Maggie.

He said in his 2022 announcement about Maggie: "Today our family said goodbye to this amazing little dog. She was a huge part of our family and our first pet so this really hurts."

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