Not a “perfect ending,” but Murray is proud of his legacy at the French Open

A quote attributed to Roland Garros runs along one of the stands on Court Philippe Chatrier.

“Victory belongs to the most tenacious,” proclaimed Garros, the 20th-century pioneer aviator after whom the French Open venue is named.

Andy Murray has undoubtedly been persistent throughout his career.

However, the 37-year-old did not win the men's singles at what was probably his last French Open.

The former world number one from Great Britain is likely to end his career this year, but has not yet outlined his exact plans.

“There has been a lot of talk about the best way to quit tennis. In most cases there is no perfect ending,” he told BBC Radio 5 Live.

“I would like to end my career with a game or tournament win, but most players don't manage that.”

His success at the French Open showed Murray's tenacity.

Clay courts have not always been easy for him, he admitted again after losing 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 to his experienced teammate and 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka on Sunday.

Yet he managed to reach the final at Roland Garros – the pinnacle of that surface and its ultimate test – when he lost to Novak Djokovic in 2016. He reached the semifinals in four more years and lost in the quarterfinals two more times in his 12 appearances.

In addition, the Scot won some of the most important titles of the ATP Tour on red clay.

“I've done a really good job here over the years. I think the problem for me is that if you compare it to what Rafa [Nadal] or Novak have achieved in the same time, it is obviously negligible in comparison,” said Murray.

“But most players would sign up based on the results I’ve achieved here.”

Spaniard Nadal has won the French Open with 14 titles – a record, Djokovic triumphed three times.

“I have in five [sets]Stan in five [sets]and twice against Rafa. Of course, that's no shame.

“At another time the results might have been somewhat different.

“But I am proud of the results I achieved here and I have great memories.”

For Murray, the French Open is not over yet, as he is scheduled to play in the men's doubles alongside fellow Briton Dan Evans.

It may not be his last trip to Roland Garros, as the tennis competitions of the Olympic Games in Paris will be held there this summer.

“My body is not what it was 10 years ago. I am fully aware of that,” Murray said.

“It takes a lot of time and effort to get it to a position where you can go out and compete. It's not always perfect.”

“But I still like to give [it] I'm trying to get out there and be as competitive as possible.”