World tennis No.1 Andy Murray has revealed he might have only a few more years playing at the top of the sport.
The 30-year-old Scot, who reached the semi-finals at the French Open before losing a five-setter to Stan Wawrinka, said he would “make the most of every tournament” while he was still competitive.
Murray had arrived at Roland Garros with only four victories since February and is preparing for his Queen’s Club title defence before turning his attention to Wimbledon and the pursuit of a third trophy.
“My coach Ivan Lendl was still competitive at the top until he was about 32 but, generally, over the past 20 to 30 years, normally by early 30s is when players have struggled to stay at the top,” he told BBC Sport.
“I know some of the players have been doing really well until their mid-30s recently, but that might not be the case with me. Maybe the next couple of years are the last few where I have a chance to compete for the majors and the biggest tournaments.”
The three-time major winner, who was knighted in the New Year Honours, believed injuries understandably began taking their toll on players due to the tough nature of the game.
“Most of the players are travelling with physios now, spending a lot more time working in the gym to protect their bodies from the kind of pounding you give it on the court as well. I think some of that explains it.
“I don’t know how long I’m going to be playing for any more. I want to make the most of every tournament I compete in.
“If I’m going to be away from my family, I’m not going to do that and not do my best. (I’ll) Be totally professional and take every tournament as seriously as I can.
“I’ll continue to play and, so long as my body is fine, I would like to hope that I would continue to do that whilst I’m still enjoying it.”