Andy Murray, one of the greatest tennis players of his generation, has shown that his golf skills might need a bit more polishing. The two-time Wimbledon champion has been participating in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, sparking speculation about a potential switch to golf, but it hasn’t all been smooth sailing.
A video shared by the DP World Tour shows Murray botching a bunker shot, with the ball barely moving from its spot in the sand trap. It caused the crowd to burst out laughing as Murray doubled over in embarrassment. “One of us, Andy,” read the caption, and Murray himself didn’t shy away from self-criticism.
He admitted: “I know I know I’m terrible at golf,” showing his true colours and not taking himself too seriously. However, some have been pleasantly surprised by his performance on the green, suggesting he could make a successful transition.
The comments on the DP World Tour post showed empathy for Murray’s golfing mishap. “We’ve all been there. More than once,” one user wrote, while another added: “I wish I could say those days were over.”
“This is so me on a golf course,” another comment read. “Looks a lot worse than it actually was .. fine lines in this wonderful game of ours,” said a more sympathetic fan.
Murray has recently spoken about his aspirations in golf, telling The Times: “A couple of my friends who are very good golfers have [played The Open]. If I can improve enough, I think it would be a fun thing to do.
“I played in the club championships at Beaverbrook a few months ago and I loved it. It was the most fun I’d had playing golf and the more I play, the less I enjoy just playing socially. I don’t know if I’ll be capable of entering, but I want to try and play in a few more events.”
Murray also expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from some seasoned golfers. “I’ve been pretty amazed at how willing the pros are to help because spending five hours with people who are hacking it around probably isn’t that enjoyable,” he added.
Gareth Bale, another sportsman who took up golf after retirement, compared his skills on the course with Murray’s. “My handicap would suggest me, but [Andy] is a good player,” he told Express Sport.
“He hasn’t been playing long, but he’s a very good player. I’ve played with him many times now and he’s such a good, nice, humble guy. He’s very funny as well.”
Partnered with professional golfer Eddie Pepperell, Murray finished seven under after the first 18 holes on Thursday, and following their second round on Friday, the pair are tied-28th on 15 under par.