Andy Murray flooded with support as he shares heartbreaking family news

Andy Murray has revealed a poignant family moment, with hundreds of his followers offering messages of support after he paid tribute to his recently departed pet. The tennis icon shared a photo on Instagram showing his beloved dog, who had crossed the rainbow bridge.

Mourning the loss, Andy wrote on social media: "You were the most loyal and protective companion our family could have wished for. You were so patient and gentle with the kids and we all learned so much from you."

He continued, expressing a deep sense of loss: "The house feels empty without you in it. The noise you made when you wanted a plate to lick or a biscuit to chew on or when you wanted anything for that matter was infuriating at times! but today we would do anything to hear it again [heartbroken emoji] love you ruzz rest easy poppet."

Fans and followers showed immense sympathy for Murray and his family. Among the heartfelt comments, one fan empathised, "The worst part of owning a pet is the final goodbye."

Another shared their sorrow, saying, "The saddest thing in life is losing a sweet loyal friend.", reports the Mirror.

While another conveyed condolences: "Thinking of you! Nothing beats the love of a border terrier. They are the best. So sorry for your loss".

Andy has previously opened up about the significant role his dogs have played throughout his tennis career. In a 2021 interview with PetsPyjamas, he described them as his biggest cheerleaders, regardless of his performance on the court.

Andy shared: "Sometimes I find it hard to unwind after a match or if I've have a particularly tough training day, but I love taking them for walks or throwing a ball for them in the garden, or even just sitting with them on the sofa - I find that it helps me relax."

The tennis star, who announced his retirement this summer, is mourning once again after losing his first border terrier, Maggie, in 2022 after 14 years. Andy and his wife Kim had Rusty since 2011 and recently urged pet owners to "give your pets a big cuddle tonight because it stings when you can't anymore" following Maggie's passing.

He expressed his grief in his 2022 announcement about Maggie, saying: "Today our family said goodbye to this amazing little dog. She was a huge part of our family and our first pet so this really hurts."