Jamie Murray, who became the first British doubles player to rise to world number one, has announced his retirement from tennis.

The seven time Grand Slam champion, who had not played since last August’s US Open, said he was “excited to enter the real world”.

“My tennis journey comes to an end after 36 years,” Murray, 40, posted on Instagram.

“I feel very fortunate and privileged for all the amazing experiences this great sport has given me.

“Thanks Mum, Dad, Andy, Ale, Alan, Louis and Thomas for all your incredible support, efforts and sacrifices throughout my career that allowed me to achieve everything I could in the game.

“For everybody else that’s helped and supported me – I appreciate all of you!”