Murray thanks Wimbledon for 'emotional' farewell celebration

Andy Murray was given an emotional farewell after his final appearance at Wimbledon began with a straight-set defeat alongside older brother Jamie in the men's doubles.

The two-time singles champion is playing at the All England Club for the last time before retiring later this year.

"It is hard because I want to keep playing, but I can't," Murray, who won Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016, told former BBC presenter Sue Barker on Centre Court.

"Physically it's too tough now. I want to play forever. I love the sport."

The Murray brothers arrived on to Centre Court – which had not hosted a first-round men’s doubles match since 1995 – to a standing ovation.

Another followed moments after they lost 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 to Australian pair John Peers and Rinky Hijikata.

A video montage of Andy Murray's career was played on the big screen after the match, leaving the former world number one in tears as the thousands of fans showed their appreciation in an elongated ovation.

Murray's parents Judy and Willie, his wife Kim and two of their daughters watched on.

The former world number one thanked his family, his team members over the years and the fans for their support over the years.

Fellow Grand Slam champions Novak Djokovic, Martina Navratilova, John McEnroe and Iga Swiatek applauded from the side of the court, alongside British players Dan Evans, Jack Draper and Cameron Norrie.

Murray is set to appear again later this week, having signed up to the mixed doubles with fellow British Grand Slam champion Emma Raducanu.

"It was obviously very special to play with Jamie, we've not the chance to do it before," Murray, who won the first of his three major titles at the 2012 US Open, said.

"It was a race against time to get out here and physically it wasn't easy but I'm glad we were able to do it one time together."