Andy Murray will play with Tim Henman for the first time in June – in a doubles match on the last day of Queen's. And it's all for a good cause - to raise money for cancer research.
Andy Murray went out of the first round in Queens last year
They are teaming up after a request from the doubles specialist Ross Hutchins, who is responding well to treatment for Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He was ranked third in the UK and 28th in the world in doubles when told at the start of the year that he had blood cancer.
"Ever since I was diagnosed and began treatment at the Royal Marsden hospital," Hutchins said, "I have wanted to do something to raise money for them to thank them for their kindness.
He will team up with Tim Henman to raise money for cancer research
"It is an unbelievable place that helps thousands of people in situations similar to mine. I'd had the idea of running a tennis event and was approached by Chris Kermode, [the tournament director of the Aegon Championships at Queen's] and the team at the LTA, who suggested doing something after the final. I thought it was a great idea.
"I then asked Andy, and straight away he said he was up for it, that he would love to play for the charity. Now Tim has said he will play, too, which is fantastic. It's going to be a really great day and for a charity that helps a lot of people and obviously one that means a lot to me."
The all-star doubles match – against opponents yet to be announced – will take place on finals day, 16 June.
"As soon as Ross started talking about the idea, I knew I wanted to get involved," Murray said. "We want to make it a day to remember, so we are talking to a few celebrities, who love their tennis, about coming down and getting involved on the day. I'm looking forward to helping raise as much money and awareness as possible so the charity can continue the amazing work it does, which I've heard all about through Ross."
Henman added: "This is a great idea and a great cause and I'm happy to have been asked to take part. It will be fun to go out on the centre court at the Queen's Club again and for the first time with Andy.
"Most importantly it's an opportunity to raise money for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity which supports the hospital that is treating Ross and makes such a difference to so many people. I'm sure everyone involved in tennis and on the day will get behind it to raise as much money as possible."
