British Stars To Play Cancer Fund-Raiser At Queens’ In June

Written by: Staff on 25th February 2013

British Stars To Play Cancer Fund-Raiser At Queens’ In June

epa03558511 Andy Murray of Great Britain hits a backhand during the men's final against Novak Djokovic of Serbia at the Australian Open Grand Slam tennis tournament in Melbourne, Australia, 27 January 2013. EPA/Barbara Walton |

Former and current British greats Tim Henman and Andy Murray will play a fund-raiser exhibition match for cancer on the final day of the Queens’ club event in June to raise money for the blood disease which has affected colleague Ross Hutchins. The Scot was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma last month and is currently undergoing treatment. He hopes to return to the ATP in doubles within a few months.

The idea for the fund-raiser on the wrap-up day of the elite London grass-event came partly from Hutchins himself plus tournament bosses, with Henman and Murray gladly offering their services.

“Ever since I was diagnosed and began treatment at the Royal Marsden hospital,” Hutchins said told the tournament website, “I’ve wanted to do something to raise money for them to thank them for their kindness.

“It is an unbelievable place that helps thousands of people in situations similar to mine. I 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.”

Murray. who has been training and resting since losing the Australian Open final a month ago, sounded particularly keen on the initiative for one of his best friends to whom he dedicated his Brisbane title victory in January,

“As soon as Ross started talking about the idea, I knew I wanted to get involved. 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.”

“Money raised will go to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity which supports the hospital that is treating Ross and makes such a difference to so many people,” said Henman. “I’m sure everyone involved in tennis and on the day will get behind it to raise as much money as possible.”

Topics: Andy Murray, British tennis news, Queen's Club, Ross Hutchins, tennis charity, Tennis News, Tim Henman