Andy Murray’s Wimbledon hopes dented as his surgeon reveals severity of the hip injury that’s forcing him to retire

Andy Murray's surgeon has revealed it will be very difficult for the British tennis star to continue playing until Wimbledon.

On Friday, an emotional Murray stated his intention to retire from tennis at his home tournament later this summer.

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But Dr John O'Donnell, who operated on the Scot's troublesome right hip, said: "I don't think it is impossible, but it will be very difficult."

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek programme, O'Donnell also said that Murray had exhausted all avenues in a bid to return to the top level.

"He has tried really hard and explored every option that has any real possibility of being helpful," O'Donnell added.

"Realistically I don't think there is anywhere else to go to preserve his hip and get it better so he can continue to play. That won't happen now."

Tearful Andy Murray says Australian Open could be his final tournament

The build-up to this year’s Australian Open has been dominated by the news that Murray will retire from professional tennis this year – with this month’s tournament possibly being his last.

Murray, the former World No1 and a five-time finalist at Melbourne, conceded on Friday that his persistent hip injury will see him retire this year, though he hopes to play on until Wimbledon.

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Australian Open 2019: All you need to know

The Brit takes on Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut on Monday morning.

Additional reporting by the Press Association