For the Australian duo of John Peers and Rinky Hijikata – who defeated the Murray brothers 7-6(6) 6-4 – the experience was just as meaningful.
“To be able to step out and share it with Andy was something really special,” Peers said. “It was Andy’s night, but unfortunately, we upset it for him.”
Fellow Aussie Storm Hunter spoke on The AO Show Weekly about the enormity of the occasion, and going up against one of Great Britain’s greatest-ever athletes in their home-Slam swansong.
LISTEN: The AO Show Weekly
“I’m sure they grew up watching Andy and admiring Andy too, and almost in a way, not wanting to be the ones that end Andy’s career,” said Hunter, the women’s doubles world No.6.
“What an amazing opportunity for Peersy and Rinky to go out and play their first-round doubles on Centre Court at Wimbledon.”