Andy Murray has paid a glowing tribute to his wife, Kim, for her unwavering support. Despite retiring from tennis following last year’s Olympic Games in Paris, Murray remains a man in demand.
Murray has played in several golf pro-am tournaments, most recently the Alfred Dunhill Championship in Scotland, where he impressed while competing alongside English professional Eddie Pepperell. The two-handicapper is hoping to get down to scratch and potentially have a crack at qualifying for The Open Championship. Away from his sporting interests, Murray is a devoted father to four children, Sophia, nine, Edie, seven, Teddy, five and Lola, four. All were born during his tennis career, which meant an exhaustive schedule of travel around the world.
Murray says he couldn’t have done it without the support of Kim, telling The i: “Kim has been unbelievable when it comes to supporting me throughout my career. She’s been the perfect supporter. She really encouraged me to keep pursuing my career.”
Despite their busy lives, Murray says the couple still try and make time for each other. He added: “It’s hard sometimes because we have quite a few kids, but we try and make time for lunch or going to the gym together when the kids are at school. I think making time for one another is important. You shouldn’t feel guilty about that.”
With a reduced schedule following his tennis retirement, Murray says it is paramount that he makes extra time for his children as they grow up. He said: “Right now, I just want to be around for my kids.
“I don’t think it’s the easiest time for kids growing up with the problems associated with screens, phones and social media. I think it’s a little bit tricky to navigate.
“My ambition is to try and be a good dad and a good husband, and when the kids are more grown up and are able to take care of themselves, then I’ll focus a little bit more on what I want to do with that stage of my life. But right now, I’m really happy doing what I’m doing. It’s a big responsibility bringing up children.”
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Murray also paid tribute to his parents for making the sacrifices so he and brother Jamie could pursue their tennis dreams. He said: “I believe that some people have certain natural gifts but it often takes the parents to make big sacrifices to allow children to explore what those gifts are.
“We were fortunate to have parents that were willing to make big sacrifices for us, and take us to tennis tournaments and lessons. Without their support and sacrifices, we wouldn’t have stood a chance of doing what we’ve done.”