‘The house feels empty without you’ – Andy Murray flooded with messages as he shares heart-breaking family update

ANDY MURRAY has made a heart-breaking goodbye to his family dog Rusty, who has passed away.

The retired tennis star took to Instagram to post the heart-felt tribute.

Murray said: "You were the most loyal and protective companion our family could have wished for.

"You were so patient and gentle with the kids and we all learned so much from you.

"The house feels empty without you in it.

"The noise you made when you wanted a plate to lick, or a biscuit to chew on, or when you wanted anything for that matter, was infuriating at times!

"But today we would do anything to hear it again.

"Love you Ruzz, rest easy poppet x."

And Murray's fans quickly took to the comments to send the Scots star their condolences.

One comment said: "The worst part of owning a pet is the final goodbye."

Another read: "The only time they break your heart is when they leave you."

A third said: "I am now crying for a dog I've never met."

Murray is lining up a sensational partnership with old rival Novak Djokovic as he kicks off his retirement from playing tennis professionally by coaching the Serbian in the Australian Open.

The pair met 36 times on opposite sides of the court, perhaps most famously for Murray's first Wimbledon victory in 2013.

Djokovic said: "I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my coach.

"I'm looking forward to start of the season and competing in Australia alongside Andy with whom I have shared many exceptional moments on the Australian soil."

Murray added: "I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him to achieve his goals."

Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page