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“Respect”: Andy Murray and Andy Roddick Defends England’s Youngsters From Criticism After Euro Cup 2020 Heartbreak
Entering any sport as a youngster often comes with several challenges. While fans lay down their expectations, those players also face immense pressure to deliver. Former US Open champions Andy Murray and Andy Roddick certainly know a thing or two about this having turned pro around the tender age of 20.
While they suffered injuries at different stages of their careers, they faced several challenges along the way. After England failed to clinch Euro 2020, the former World No. 1s offered words of support for the youngsters in the team.
Murray and Roddick give encouraging words to England footballers after Euro defeat
England played home to a hectic weekend filled with sporting events. While the Wimbledon Championships were taking place at the All England Club, Wembley Stadium played host to multiple Euro 2020 matches during the last couple of weeks.
In fact, the England national football team played six of their seven games at Wembley. Yesterday, both tournaments concluded in nail-biting finishes. Although Italian fans faced disappointment with Matteo Berrettini losing the Men’s final at Wimbledon, their football team made up for it by defeating England on penalties.
Totally agree with you. All of those players deserve and need the support of the public after that. All seem like brilliant guys. Nothing can prepare you for that level of pressure/attention/criticism at 19/20 years old. Respect https://t.co/D1BGJqeCsN
— Andy Murray (@andy_murray) July 11, 2021
However, England fielded the second youngest side of the tournament, with the average age just a shade over 25. In addition, three of their five penalty takers yesterday had an average age of just 21 years old. Despite their talent, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Bukayo Saka crumbled under the weight on their shoulders in yesterday’s penalty shootout.
After the game, Murray replied to a tweet put out by popular English broadcaster Piers Morgan to console those three youngsters. He said, “Totally agree with you. All of those players deserve and need the support of the public after that. All seem like brilliant guys. Nothing can prepare you for that level of pressure/attention/criticism at 19/20 years old. Respect.”
Roddick also faced a similar situation as a 20-year-old in 2003. Although he won the US Open that year, he came close to winning other Grand Slams as well. He replied, “I see what you did there!”
READ MORE: Andy Murray’s Documentary Provides A Glimpse Into His Struggles
Can Andy Murray defend his Olympic title in Tokyo?
The Briton won consecutive gold medals at London in 2012 and Rio in 2016. Although he is the defending champion at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics, he isn’t quite the same player he was four to five years back.
Tennis – Wimbledon – All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, Britain – June 30, 2021 Britain’s Andy Murray celebrates winning his second round match against Germany’s Oscar Otte REUTERS/Toby Melville
With Novak Djokovic clinching his 20th career Grand Slam yesterday, he looks the favorite to taste gold in Tokyo. However, a rejuvenated Murray still poses a threat given his record at the Games.
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