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Photographing Andy Murray through the years – insights from Getty Images’ Clive Brunskill & Julian Finney
Just a few months on from former world No.1 Andy Murray’s retirement and the tributes keep coming for one of the true legends of the sport.
Very few people will have followed his career as closely as the photographers travelling to events around the world to capture all the highs and lows of his 19 years on tour.
Getty Images photographers Clive Brunskill and Julian Finney are two of the most renowned names in the world of tennis photography and both have been there to immortalise his achievements through their images.
As part of our celebrations of the three-time Grand Slam champions career alongside Getty Images, both Clive and Julian shared their memories on what it was like to photograph one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Clive Brunskill
What was it like photographing Andy Murray throughout his career?
Well, the first thing that comes to mind is the word eventful. With Andy there was never a dull moment - whether it be celebrating alone or with his team on-the-court or moments of dejection.
You never knew what was coming next. As a photographer, you never left the court, or you could miss the story. That’s what made shooting Andy from behind the lens so exciting.
Off the court he was polite, funny and kind. I always enjoyed talking to him when we both ever got the chance, usually at off court shoots.
I also got the chance to cover his wedding, which was probably one of the best assignments that I’ve ever done!
Julian Finney
As a tennis photographer, Andy Murray took us on one hell of a ride - full of surprises with ups and downs.
He won’t only be remembered for his super successful tennis career, but also for what he did off the court. It’s an era of sport that I’m very privileged to have presented in pictures.
He was so passionate in the match. He felt every high and low point with great expression. He wanted it so bad. He had spent most of his life working for this, and it showed!
Often during the beginning of his career, Andy would be more mellow at match points where he felt the most comfortable - having gotten the job done with just a wave of appreciation.
You wanted to see the unexpected moments mid-match. He wasn’t shy on the court - he really showed in his expressions what he felt - often we’d hear and see too much.
I personally loved seeing and capturing a Murray celebration, racket and fist close to the body with gritted teeth and then the scream or shout releasing the built-up tension.
Andy was in the greatest and toughest era of tennis. His wins meant a lot more than your average one. Well done and thank you Andy.