ANDY MURRAY will be practising to make sure he does not make a right royal mess of the proudest moment of his career.
Embarrassed Murray revealed he almost blinded Princess Anne when he was unveiled at a VIP function earlier this week as Team GB’s flag-bearer for tonight’s opening ceremony.
The Wimbledon champion said: “I ended up putting the flag in front of Princess Anne’s face.
“I think she said, ‘Make sure you don’t poke my eye out!’ or something like that.
“There was a big point on it. I think she was OK about it. I will try to get a bit of practice in though!
“It’s by far the proudest moment of my professional career. I was very emotional when I was told.
“I never ever thought I would get the opportunity to do this. I’m looking forward to it. Hopefully I will do a better job than I did the other day.”
Murray’s voice cracked at times as he spoke about the honour, leaving no doubt about how much it means to him.
The first tennis player ever to carry the Union Flag has spoken to two-time bearer Sir Steve Redgrave about what to expect.
And he is planning to follow the advice of London 2012 carrier Sir Chris Hoy about going for it one-handed and with no holster.
RELATED STORIES
Murray believes the experience will inspire his effort to retain his Olympic title and in his doubles bid with brother Jamie — and that his chances will not be hurt by tonight’s late night.
He added: “I play both my first-round matches on Sunday. It’s up to me to make sure it doesn’t affect anything. It’s inspiring, I’m sure it’s going to help me.
“To play in another Olympics with Jamie means a lot to both of us.
“Winning a medal is difficult but to do it with your brother would be very, very special.”
Leave a comment