“I knew that moment was coming for the last few months and if it didn’t happen today it was going to come in a few days’ time – I was ready for it,” Murray said after the match.

“Obviously, it was emotional – it’s the last time I’ll play a competitive much, but I am just happy right now. I’m happy with how it finished, I’m glad I got to go out here at the Olympics and finish on my terms because at times over the last few years that wasn’t a certainty.

“I still had a dream this week that we had a chance of doing that (winning a medal) because physically I was able and Dan was playing really well, but just didn’t play a good match tonight.”

It’s been a turbulent few months for Murray after a back injury at the cinch Championships casted doubts over whether he would get the perfect send off doing what he loves most – competing.

“When I first went to have the scan on my back, I was told I wouldn’t be playing at the Olympics, that I wouldn’t be playing at Wimbledon,” Murray admitted.

“So, I feel lucky that I got that opportunity to play here and have some great matches and amazing memories.

“I knew I wanted to finish this summer, that was what I felt like I wanted, but there was still some uncertainty in that because I thought ‘what if I do really well on the grass’, ‘what if my level improves’.

“But once I had the meeting with the doctor and understood what it was like ok, let’s see if we can get through Wimbledon and prepare well for the Olympics and try and have a good run here.”

After waving goodbye to the crowd at Roland Garros for one final time, Murray had chance to reflect on his career, his journey and the memories along the way.

“I’m proud of my career, my achievements and what I did in the sport,” he said definitively.

“If I went back to the beginning of my career when I started playing in Scotland, no one standing here, myself included, my family, none of them would have expected that I would have gone on to do what I did.

“As someone who wants to achieve great things in the sport there’s stuff I would have done differently, but it’s been an amazing journey. I’ve learnt lots of lessons that help me as a parent or will help me in whatever I do next.

“Tennis and sport generally is brilliant for that, it teaches you a lot of lessons about dealing with setbacks and how to manage the highs as well. I’ve learnt a lot from this career.

“A huge thank you for all the support, I’ve felt that a lot in the last year’s in particular, whether that’s been in the UK or around the world – the support has been amazing. That’s one of the things I’ll hugely miss – playing in front of them and a public who are getting right behind you and engaging with them is something I’ve really enjoyed.

“A huge thank you to everyone who has supported the journey.”

It was also an emotional night for Murray’s partner Evans, who has been in inspired form during their quarter-final run in Paris.

The former world No.21, who has enjoyed many of the best moments of his career competing for Great Britain was disappointed with the overall result, but pleased with the pairs journey this week.

“I’m proud of what we did but it’s bittersweet at the end,” Evans said. “I’ve had a whale of a time this week.

“It’s super emotional for me as well to be part of it. For me I obviously wanted to medal, it’s my last chance as well. It’s difficult but I’m always proud to represent Great Britain in any competition, but this was super special.

“(At the end) I just told him at the chair to get out there because what he’s like he wouldn’t have gone out. That’s how he is as a man – doesn’t want the plaudits just a genuine guy, generous with his time and a top, top, top human being.”

Evans couldn’t speak highly enough of his partner, compatriot, Davis Cup teammate and friend and everything he’s given to the sport over the last two decades.

“He’s going to be missed for British tennis and the world game – it’s a figurehead that’s gone I’d say,” he said.

“I can’t imagine he’ll be leaving this sport, I hope he stays around doing something in some capacity because he’s a great motivator, gives great advice – whatever he puts his hand to he’ll be good.

“All the things he’s done for me, on behalf of British tennis, there’s no words for stuff like that.

“It was rocking in there and he deserved every minute of it. He’s a class act and always has been, for British tennis and world tennis. He’s spoken up on matters other people wouldn’t speak about and he’s a good guy.”