ATP London, Great Britain

Top 5 Photos: Andy Murray's victorious return at Queen's Club

With all eyes on Murray, the Scot partnered Feliciano Lopez to knock out the top seeds in doubles.

By Jordaan SanfordPublished June 20, 2019

The long-awaited wait finally ended for Andy Murray, as the former world No. 1 kicked off his comeback on Thursday by winning his doubles debut with Feliciano Lopez at Queen's Club. These are the Top 5 photos from Murray's magnificent return.

1. Many, including Murray, thought his career could be cut short in January due to an unbearable right hip injury. Having already undergone a procedure previously, he decided to opt for a hip resurfacing to improve his quality of life, with playing tennis no longer his main priority. After several positive signs throughout the recovery process, the 32-year-old made his return on the doubles court at Queen's Club with partner Feliciano Lopez.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 20: Andy Murray of Great Britain walks onto centre court with his playing partner Feliciano Lopez of Spain prior to their First Round Doubles match against Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah of Colombia during day Four of the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 20, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) — © Getty Images

2. The three-time Grand Slam singles champion moved well and seemed to be playing free of pain. Murray and Lopez took on top-seeded Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah, who were fresh off a Roland Garros semifinal run.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 20: Andy Murray of Great Britain, partner of Feliciano Lopez of Spain plays a forehand volley at the net during his First Round Doubles match against Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah of Colombia during day Four of the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 20, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) — © Getty Images

3. Murray decided to play doubles at Queen's Club to test his physical condition in a slightly less intensive doubles environment. It's expected this will help better gauge if a return to the singles court later this season is possible.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 20: Andy Murray of Great Britain, partner of Feliciano Lopez of Spain serves during his First Round Doubles match against Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah of Colombia during day Four of the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 20, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) — © Getty Images

4. The Scot, known for his exceptional hands and feel, was comfortable transitioning from the baseline. He ignited the home crowd with his passionate performance.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 20: Andy Murray of Great Britain, partner of Feliciano Lopez of Spain plays a backhand during his First Round Doubles match against Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah of Colombia during day Four of the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 20, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images) — © Getty Images

5. Murray and Lopez held their ground to upset the No. 1 seeds, 7-6 (5), 6-3. Murray’s return brought his home crowd to their feet as they cheered and celebrated a personal victory that goes far beyond the outcome of Thursday’s match.

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 20: Feliciano Lopez of Spain applauds his playing partner Andy Murray of Great Britain as he acknowledges the crowd after winning their First Round Doubles match against Juan Sebastian Cabal and Robert Farah of Colombia during day Four of the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 20, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) — © Getty Images

Bonus: Watch below to see how Murray and Lopez clinched their first win together.

A. Murray/F. Lopez vs. R. Farah/J. Cabal: Rd. of 16