Murray, 37, was later challenged to a round of golf by one of his former tennis rivals

ANDY MURRAY gave Rory McIlroy words of encouragement after bumping into him at the Wentworth celebrity Pro-Am this week.

The British sporting icon, 37, has played plenty of golf since retiring from tennis at the Olympics last month.

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Andy Murray caught up with pal Rory McIlroy at WentworthCredit: Social Media

Murray, 37, was in action at the Pro-Am in SurreyCredit: Rex

In the curtain raiser for the BMW PGA Championship, Murray played alongside fellow Scot Bob MacIntyre in Surrey.

While at the event, the three-time Major winner appeared delighted to bump into old pal McIlroy.

Beaming as the golfer approached him, Murray asked: “How are you?”

After the pair exchanged pleasantries, Murray revealed that he’s been playing a lot of golf since his tennis retirement.

He then offered heartfelt words of encouragement for McIlroy, who has had to endure a turbulent year both on and off the golf course.

The 35-year-old filed for divorce from wife Erica back in May, before performing a dramatic U-turn the following month.

He then missed out on US Open glory in agonising fashion, having led with just a few holes remaining.

McIlroy also endured a similar outcome at the Irish Open earlier this month.

Speaking to his friend, Murray said: “Great job this year. It’s been tough but you’ve done super well.”

The two-time former Wimbledon champion later took to social media to cheekily respond to those pointing out the flaws in his golf game.

Watch Andy Murray and Gareth Bale nail putt at Wentworth celebrity Pro-Am before tennis legend’s trademark celebration

He wrote: “Huge thanks to all the amateur golfers on social media for their constructive criticism of my golf swing.

“Much appreciated.”

Among those to respond was former world No7 Mardy Fish, who lost five of his nine meetings with Murray.

He wrote: “Hey Andy, Mardy Fish here…

“I’ll play you for all the prize money I lost when you beat me on the tennis court. Deal?”

Fish, 42, plays off a handicap of around 3, while Murray played off 7 at Wentworth.

Fish, 42, laid down a challenge for MurrayCredit: Getty