Andy Murray: Things to know about double Olympic champion and Wimbledon fan favourite

Defying the odds is becoming something of a trademark for tennis star Andy Murray.

The 34-year-old, who once regularly danced with tennis' "Big Three" - Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, and Rafael Nadal - suffered a big career setback when he was compelled to undergo two hip surgeries in 2018 and 2019, effectively sidelining him from the game.

Doubts have since lingered over whether the Briton would be able to find the form that made him a double Olympic champion.

But now it's clear: Murray is back.

The former world number one's run at Wimbledon 2021 was nothing short of inspirational. His shot selection featured heroic returns and looping lobs; his familiar rallying cries accompanied by raging fist pumping.

In many ways, Wimbledon 2021 saw vintage Murray, a clear sign that the three-time grand slam winner still has what it takes to win at the highest level.

Want to join in on the legions of fans backing Murray's Centre Court return? Here's what you need to know about tennis star recapturing the sport's imagination.

1- Andy Murray's career in statistics

Tennis, above all is a numbers game and it's an arena where Murray can proudly boast some impressive figures.

To his name, the Briton has: One U.S. Open crown (2012); two Wimbledon titles (2013 and 2016); 11 Grand Slam final appearances in total; held the world No.1 ranking for 41 weeks; and is the 5th highest earning tennis player of all time.

There are other special achievements that will have you appreciating why Brits are so pleased to see their favourite tennis icon back on home turf and excelling,

Murray was the first British man to win a Grand Slam singles title in 76 years and, is also the first British man to win Wimbledon in 77 years.

He also steered Great Britain to the Davis Cup team title, and has won three Olympic medals representing Great Britain (two singles golds, and a silver in mixed doubles).

2 - Centre court and centre stage

Murray's injury woes were the subject of an Amazon Prime Video film titled: Andy Murray: Resurfacing.

The documentary charts the Briton's life between 2017 and 2019, reflecting on his emotional resilience as well as the physical battles he endures to keep his hopes of playing professional tennis to the best of his abilities once again.

3 - He's as starstruck by Serena Williams as everyone else

It is fair to say that Murray is more than a fan of both Williams sisters.

The US Open champion has on occasion corrected interviewers who overlook the impressive feats of the American duo.

Influenced in part by his mother, Judy Murray, and in other by the backlash he witnessed when he hired ex-tennis star Amelie Mauresmo as his coach, Murray has become well-known for challenging sexism in tennis.

But it's not just off the court that Murray and Serena Williams share a bond. The two had tennis fans' hearts racing when they announced that they would be partnering up for mixed doubles at Wimbledon in 2019.

The blockbuster partnership - dubbed 'Ser-Andy' - however, didn't progress all too far. They were knocked out of championship by top seeds Bruno Soares and Nicole Melichar in their third match.

4 - Don't forget Jamie Murray

There must be a strong tennis gene in the Murray family because Andy is not the only one who has hit the big time in tennis.

Jamie Murray, Andy's elder brother, is a seven-time Grand Slam doubles winner, a Davis Cup champion, and a former doubles world No.1.

5 - How does Andy Murray eat his strawberries?

Strawberries and cream has been the traditional dessert of Wimbledon since the tournament's debut back in 1877.

Given that Murray has won the grass-court tournament twice you would like to think that when asked by Wimbledon how he eats his strawberries the Briton would know how to answer the question.

Cue his infamous wit and charisma:

"With my fingers."