Andy finds feminism

19 May 2015 - 02:01 By ©The Daily Telegraph

Andy Murray says working with his coach Amelie Mauresmo has turned him into a feminist. Tennis's world No3 raised eyebrows when he appointed Mauresmo last year, with many criticising his decision to work under a female coach.With Mauresmo due to give birth later this year her role as his coach is uncertain, but the Scot says she has already had a big effect on his outlook."I'm pro everyone being equal and if that's being a feminist, then you could say so, yes," said Murray."It opened my eyes when I started working with Amelie. Inequality is something I started to see. I've become very passionate about getting more women in sport, giving women more opportunities."When I was younger I wasn't thinking about stuff like that. But now I've seen it with my own eyes. It's amazing how few female coaches there are across any sport," he said.Seen by many as surly, Murray also admitted that he feels more comfortable opening up to females."I'm not sure why, but ever since I was young I've found it easier to talk about how I'm feeling with the women closest to me - my mum, my wife."It was much easier for me to open up to Amelie when I wasn't feeling confident."When you get five or six men sitting at a table in a competitive environment it's not pleasant. I've found it difficult to open up sometimes as you feel judged or that it's seen as a sign of weakness."Sometimes, when we're trying to be macho, it can get a bit testosterone-fuelled."Murray will compete in the French Open, which starts later this week. ..

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.