ANDY Murray will undergo a whole range of emotions similar to the grieving process as he makes the transition to retirement, according to a renowned sports psychologist.
The former world No 1 plans on retiring from tennis after Wimbledon this summer, although also admitted he may not last until then due to a chronic hip problem.
The three-time Grand Slam champion broke down as he spoke about his decision to retire, and Sandy Gordon, Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Western Australia, revealed Murray’s emotions over the coming months will be as turbulent as someone who has suffered a bereavement.
“Saying goodbye to ‘the athlete’, letting go of old ways and lifestyle habits is hard,” said the Scot, who has worked with a number of elite athletes including the Australian cricket team.
“The process is akin to emotional adjustments to grieving: from shock, loss, denial, resistance, anger – to frustration, bargaining, depression – to acceptance, exploration – to full commitment to new beginnings.
“Career transition research suggests that it is also harder to adjust to involuntary retirement, through injury or deselection, than to voluntary retirement.”
When Murray finally stops playing he will enjoy an immediate sense of release, but may find the move to the next stage of his life more difficult.
“Adjusting to career end is initially relatively quick and easy, and many transitioning professional athletes express relief when ‘it’s over’,” added Gordon. “However, the psychological transition to career end – the wandering and reorientation zone – often takes longer as athletes endeavour to adjust to a new identity, different purpose, picture and game plan.
“Andy might consider tennis coaching and administration roles as he transitions out of the athlete role, and these days most athletes have access to career transition programs courtesy of player union activities.”
Gordon felt that Murray’s recent comments suggest he does not envisage carrying on much longer.
“Having watched and listened to him he does appear to have resigned to retiring soon due to chronic injury.”
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