Andy Murray joins fellow Brit Emma Raducanu's management agency IMG after shutting down the tennis division of his own agency

Andy Murray has signed a surprise deal with management agency IMG after announcing the closing of his own agency's tennis division.

Murray established his agency back in 2013. It is called '77,' indicating the number of years that had passed between himself and the previous Brit - Fred Perry - winning Wimbledon. But the 35-year-old has now cut off his agency's ties with tennis and made a sudden jump to IMG, a company known for boosting off-court earning opportunities.

The deal has come across as a surprise to the tennis world as Murray has never shown a great inclination towards enhancing his off-court earnings. While greats like Roger Federer have made about $1 billion just through endorsements and sponsorships, Murray's off-court earnings account for just $100 million.

Murray is following the path of fellow Brit Emma Raducanu, who has had immense success under IMG. The agency has secured Raducanu multiple endorsement deals with sponsors like Tiffany & Co, Porsche, Dior, Evian, British Airways and HSBC, to name a few.

IMG has repeatedly proven its worth in tennis, embodying a large client base and even owning three events on the ATP tour. Reflecting on the deal, Murray stated that he joined IMG with an eye for business opportunities in the future and not just for his playing career.

"I'm looking forward to working with IMG not just for the remainder of my playing career, but with an eye on the future and opportunities both in tennis and in the wider business world," he said.

Meanwhile, Murray's agent Max Eisenbud expressed hope of expanding the three-time Grand Slam champion's reach across multiple businesses through this deal.

"Andy has built a legacy in tennis that has not only shaped the sport but also defined its place in culture. We’re thrilled to have him join the IMG family and work together to expand his reach and influence across multiple businesses," Eisenbud stated.

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Andy Murray endured a first-round exit at the 2023 Miami Open

Andy Murray at the 2023 Miami Open

Andy Murray lost to Dusan Lajovic in straight sets (4-6, 5-7) in the first round of the 2023 Miami Open. This came a week after Murray's loss to fellow Brit Jack Draper in the third round at Indian Wells.

Following his disappointing outing at the Sunshine Double, Murray will shift his focus towards the Monte Carlo Masters, the first ATP Masters 1000 claycourt event of the season.

Murray had indicated some time back that he plans to play on clay before heading into his favorite grasscourt season.