Murray digs for Olympic gold

Murray's opponents in Beijing could include the world No 1 Roger Federer (AP)

Andy Murray has confirmed he will represent Great Britain at this summer's Olympic Games.

It is unclear how many of the world's top names will take part because the event is close to the US Open – the Olympics tennis competition finishes on 17 August, with the US Open starting on 27 August – but the British No 1 and world No 22 has no qualms about playing in China.

"I'm definitely going to play the Olympics," he said. "It's something that not all athletes get the chance to do in their career. It's an honour to represent your country and I'm looking forward to it." The Games have been in the news for reasons other than sport this week with the torch relays through London and Paris targeted by protesters angry at China's human rights record.

There have been calls for athletes to boycott the event, but Murray said, "For me, the Olympics is more about the sport. I'm just concentrating and looking forward to playing in the tennis. I'm not a politician."

Murray's opponents in Beijing could include the world No 1 Roger Federer, who is known to covet an Olympic gold medal. The Swiss player's phenomenal reputation has been affected by an indifferent start to the season and he has failed to reach a final so far this year.

Federer recently revealed he has been suffering from glandular fever, and Murray is not expecting the 12-time Grand Slam champion's current slump to continue. "He's still No 1 in the world and he's probably going to stay there this year," said the Scot. "He's not lost on grass for five years so I'm guessing he's still going to be in good form come Wimbledon time."