Andy Murray STUNNED by lack of female coaches on both Tours, calls for change

Andy Murray spoke for inclusivity of women in sports again.

Andy Murray STUNNED by lack of female coaches on both Tours, calls for change

Andy Murray with his former coach Amelie Mauresmo (Credit: CNN)

Andy Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has expressed surprise and concern about the conspicuous shortage of female coaches on the WTA Tour. The Briton underlined the importance of more women in coaching roles in both the men’s and women’s tournaments. Murray, who has worked with female coaches directly, believes it is past time for tennis authorities to act and promote gender diversity in coaching.

Murray discussed the matter during a recent social media discussion on the Citi Open Instagram page. He said that, while female instructors are scarce on both tours, the paucity is especially obvious on the women’s tour, which he finds unexpected. Addressing this issue is critical for the sport’s growth and progress, in his opinion.

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“I think it is really important. It is something that I’ve found surprising across both tours, but particularly on the women’s tour. Like how few female coaches there are,” he stated.

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Murray has personal experience working with Amelie Mauresmo, a two-time Grand Slam champion who coached him from 2014 to 2016. He was one of the first top-10 men’s players to hire a female coach. His plea for more female coaches resonates with the greater campaign for diversity and inclusivity in sports.

“I think it’s about time that the WTA had an initiative to try and help with this. Hopefully, those numbers increase because it’s a very small amount. Certainly, across the men’s tours. And that’s something that needs to change,” he added.

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Andy Murray championing feminism and confronting sexism in sports

Andy Murray
Andy Murray (Credit: Britannica)

Andy Murray has made headlines not only for his outstanding achievements on the court but also for his open support of women and unflinching stance against sexism in sports. He has always challenged gender preconceptions throughout his career, sparking much-needed dialogues about gender equality in the sports sector.

One notable incident occurred in December 2018, during the Ballon d’Or award ceremony. When footballer Ada Hegerberg became the first female recipient of the prestigious women’s Ballon d’Or, DJ Martin Solveig‘s insensitive question to Hegerberg about twerking sparked widespread backlash, with many deeming it sexist. Murray expressed his displeasure on Instagram, calling out the ‘ridiculous sexism’ that still exists in sports, and questioned why women continue to face such humiliating treatment.

Another significant instance is during a post-match press conference where Murray demonstrated his commitment to combating casual sexism. When a journalist made an incorrect statement regarding a male US player’s accomplishment while ignoring Venus Williams‘ triumph in the women’s competition, Murray quickly corrected the error. This gesture garnered him acclaim for promoting gender equality and underlining the significance of acknowledging women’s athletic achievements.

Working with coach Amélie Mauresmo has had a significant impact on Murray’s perspective on women in sports over the years. He has grown increasingly concerned about gender inequity and is committed to expanding chances for women in sports.

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