Andy Murray posed for the unveiling of Wimbledon’s newest statue on 5 July 2026, joining a stand‑in model as sculptor Jonathan Miller captured his legendary doubles pose.
What happened?
The All England Club commissioned a bronze figure to honor Murray’s two‑hour‑long career at the Championships. On the morning of 5 July, Murray arrived at the Centre Court garden with a professional tennis stand‑in, 23‑year‑old Alex Hughes, who replicated Murray’s footwork while the artist worked.
Miller explained that using a stand‑in allowed him to study the exact angle of Murray’s serve and the tension in his shoulders. The final piece will show Murray mid‑serve, racket raised, eyes fixed on an imagined opponent. The statue is slated for installation on the west side of the grounds before the 2026 tournament begins.
Why it matters for Andy Murray
Murray’s involvement goes beyond a simple photo op. By actively participating, he ensures the sculpture reflects the nuances of his game—something fans have debated for years. The statue will sit alongside tributes to Björn Borg and Rod Laver, cementing Murray’s place among the sport’s greats.
For the former world No. 1, the monument also marks a personal milestone. It arrives just months after his successful doubles partnership with Jamie Davis at the Queen’s Club, where they reached the semifinals on 12 June. The timing underscores Murray’s continued relevance on court, even as he pivots toward legacy projects.
How the sculptor achieved realism
Miller disclosed that Hughes practiced Murray’s signature forehand for two hours before the shoot. He then used motion‑capture cameras to record the swing’s arc, translating the data into a 3‑D model. The artist later refined the bronze casting by hand, adding the texture of Murray’s grip and the subtle flex of his wrist.
The process mirrors techniques used for the recent Serena Williams statue in New York, where a stand‑in helped capture the power of her serve. Miller believes the method yields a more authentic tribute than relying solely on photographs.
What comes next?
The completed statue will debut during Wimbledon’s opening ceremony on 20 July 2026. Organisers plan a short video featuring Murray’s own commentary on the piece, followed by a brief walk‑around for the press.
Fans can expect a photo‑op area where they’ll line up for selfies with the bronze figure. The club also announced a limited‑edition print series, with proceeds supporting the Wimbledon Academy’s youth programs.
Murray’s participation signals his endorsement of the club’s heritage projects and hints at future ambassador roles. As the tournament approaches, his presence on the grounds will likely draw additional crowds eager to see the new monument up close.