Andy Murray announces the passing of cherished pet Rusty

Former world number one Andy Murray has announced the death of his pet in an emotional post on the social media. The 38-year-old is often regarded as the greatest player in the history of men’s tennis in the singles category.

Murray, in a post on his official account on the social media platform Instagram, announced the death of his pet Rusty. "The house feels empty without you in it,” he wrote. "You were the most loyal and protective companion our family could have wished for," adding, "You were so patient and gentle with the kids and we all learned so much from you. 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, Love you ruzz rest easy poppet x"

Murray and his wife Kim were the owners of the pet for the last 13 years. The Glasgow-born has recently retired from professional tennis, largely because of fitness concerns. His last event was the Paris Olympics where he participated in the doubles category with Dan Evans. However, the pair was knocked out after losing in the quarterfinals.

Murray finished his career with three major titles. His first major title was the US Open in 2012 where he defeated the former world number one Novak Djokovic in a five-set thriller with a score of 7–6(12–10), 7–5, 2–6, 3–6, 6–2. He then lifted the Wimbledon title in 2013 after once again beating Djokovic in the final, this time in straight sets with a score of 6-4, 7-5, 6-4. Murray’s last major title was also Wimbledon title as he defeated Canada’s Milos Raonic in the final in straight sets with a score of 6-4, 7-6, 7-6.