Andy Murray beat Grigor Dimitrov 7-6, 6-4 to win the Brisbane International for the second straight year, and he dedicated the victory Sunday to a close friend who recently was diagnosed with cancer.
Murray dedicated his win to tennis player and friend Ross Hutchins, who recently revealed that he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.
“I’d like to dedicate this victory to one of my best friends back home,” Murray said as he accepted his trophy. “You’re going to be OK. You’re going to get through.”
Hutchins recently made his revelation public. He tweeted two messages about the diagnosis Sunday.
Happy New Year to all!Unfortunately I will be away from tennis for a while as I was recently diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma..
— Ross Hutchins (@RoscoHutchins) January 6, 2013
I am doing well, very positive with excellent medical support,friends and family around me. Looking forward to being back on the court soon!
— Ross Hutchins (@RoscoHutchins) January 6, 2013
In addition to mentioning Hutchins in his acceptance speech, Murray scribbled on a nearby TV camera after his win, “For you, Rosco.”
Murray and Hutchins are close friends on tour, Davis Cup teammates, and have even played together as doubles partners. Hutchins is ranked No. 28 in the world in doubles. Murray will have some extra motivation when he plays in the Australian Open next week.
