From the Hip Clinic to the Tennis Court: Reflections from the Australian Open

By Dr. Sami Farah, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Specialist in Anterior Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement

Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of attending the Australian Open with my brother, where I met tennis great Jim Courier. Standing courtside, surrounded by the energy of elite sport, I couldn’t help but think of another remarkable athlete whose journey continues to inspire both patients and surgeons alike — Andy Murray.

When Murray returned to the courts of Melbourne after undergoing hip resurfacing surgery, he wasn’t just playing tennis — he was redefining what’s possible after major joint surgery. His comeback is a powerful reminder of how far orthopaedic innovation has come, and how we can now help people stay active at every stage of life.

What Exactly Is Hip Resurfacing?

Hip resurfacing is a bone-preserving alternative to total hip replacement. Instead of removing the entire femoral head, we reshape and cap it with a smooth metal surface, paired with a matching metal socket (a ceramic bearing surface is now also available).

This approach:

• Preserves more of the patient’s natural bone
• Allows participation in impact-loading activities (such as running, jumping, and skipping) as well as heavy manual labour and lifting
• Reduces the risk of dislocation
• Makes future revision surgery potentially simpler, if ever required

For the right patient — often younger, active individuals — these advantages can be life-changing.

Andy Murray’s Journey

After years of chronic hip pain, Andy Murray underwent hip resurfacing in 2019. At the time, many assumed it would mark the end of his professional career. Yet within months, he returned to competition — training, playing, and even stepping back onto the court at the Australian Open.

His story beautifully illustrates that life after hip surgery doesn’t mean slowing down; it means moving forward with the right treatment, guidance, and determination.

The Technology Behind Modern Hip Surgery

In my own practice, I use precise instrumentation and computer-assisted, patient-specific guides to ensure accuracy and long-term outcomes for each patient. Every hip is unique, and resurfacing allows me to tailor the procedure to the individual’s anatomy.

Who Is the Ideal Candidate?

Hip resurfacing isn’t suitable for everyone, but it can be an excellent option for:

• Active men under 65
• Patients with normal bone quality (as shown by bone mineral density scans)
• Individuals wishing to maintain a high level of physical activity or impact sports

During a consultation, I discuss all surgical and non-surgical options — including alternative procedures such as anterior minimally invasive total hip replacement— to help patients make informed decisions about their care.

Back in the Game

Watching the world’s best athletes perform — and sharing a courtside moment with Jim Courier — was a timely reminder that mobility is freedom. Whether you’re an elite player or simply aiming to return to pain-free movement, the right orthopaedic care can help you get there.

If hip pain is holding you back — from martial arts, football, hockey to tennis, golf, cycling, or just everyday life — hip resurfacing or anterior minimally invasive hip replacement may help you get back to doing what you love.