A summer of discontent for Murray — and Tim Henman — took another downward turn when both men withdrew from this week's warm-up event in New Haven, Connecticut.

While Henman stayed on to have treatment on his back in an attempt to be fit to play in New York, where the US Open starts a week tomorrow, Murray took the decision to make a 6,000-mile round trip home to rejuvenate his mind, as much as his body.

After disappointing displays in Montreal and Cincinnati during his tentative comeback from a wrist injury sustained three months ago, Murray feels his chances of being prepared for the ordeal awaiting him will be improved by a visit to London, where he has recently acquired an apartment.

His manager Patricio Apey said: "It's a sensible move on Andy's part. He can practise at the National Tennis Centre and get some time with Kim before she starts university. It will be therapeutic for him to have a few days away from the tournament scene."

Apey expects Murray to fly back to New York on Wednesday, where he will make a final decision on his participation in the US Open.

At least his wrist will get a break