Andy Murray steps up rehabilitation from hip injury to boost US Open chances but Novak Djokovic a major doubt

World No 1 Andy Murray has stepped up his rehabilitation from a problematic hip injury, boosting his chances of being fit for the US Open next month.

Novak Djokovic, meanwhile, looks likely to miss the final grand slam of the season as he struggles with an elbow injury.

Last year's runner-up at Flushing Meadows faces a "six to 12 weeks" layoff, according to his Serbian doctor. It is hoped that rest is the best medicine for the former world No 1 with surgery "the last option".

Murray, meanwhile, has begun his road to recovery following issues with his troublesome hip which flared up before Wimbledon.

The British No 1 posted a video on Instagram of him hitting against a wall. It comes three days after Murray shared an image with his physio, Shane Annun at a swimming pool in less than flattering attire. He joked: "Not amused at the ridiculous outfit my physio had me wearing for pool rehab session today. At least I looked better than him in it".

It is thought that Murray's camp are still confident he will be fit to play at Flushing Meadows from August 28.

The same cannot be said for Djokovic, who like Murray, suffered a quarter-final departure at Wimbledon. While Murray hobbled out of his last eight encounter losing in five sets to Sam Querrey, Djokovic was forced to retire during his contest with Tomas Berdych.

Djokovic's doctor said yesterday that the 30-year-old could need three months off to recover from his elbow complaint. 

His doctor Zdenko Milinkovic, who revealed Djokovic has been in Toronto to seek specialist advice, said: "He will have to rest for six to 12 weeks, and then we are going to see," said Milinkovic.

"The symptoms are calming down. Now with various procedures it can affect his recovery. Surgery is the last option."