Judy Murray appeared to be joking when she referred to Emma Raducanu’s decision not to participate in mixed doubles with Andy Murray as "astonishing", acknowledging that their late scheduling may have been a contributing factor.
Emma Raducanu announced on Saturday her withdrawal from the match, citing some discomfort in her right wrist after undergoing surgery last year and having to prepare for a singles match in the following day's fourth round.
Following social media backlash accusing Raducanu of ruining her son’s farewell at Wimbledon, Judy Murray clarified on Sunday: "Not sure anyone understands sarcasm these days." She added that the timing of their match might have influenced her decision to withdraw.
Raducanu and Andy Murray had been scheduled as the last pairing for Saturday's competition, with a plan to avoid potential conflicts from England’s Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland. However, due to rain and an opponent playing in men's doubles, they were relocated to a later slot.
John McEnroe, the former world No.1 tennis player who briefly returned to competitive mixed doubles at Wimbledon with Steffi Graf in 1999, may be able to offer insight if Andy Murray seeks perspective on this matter. Their match against Venus Williams and Justin Gimelstob went well but was ultimately overshadowed by Graf's withdrawal from the singles final the next day for health reasons - an opportunity McEnroe now regrets losing.
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