Judith Mary Murray, OBE, is a prominent Scottish tennis coach renowned for her significant contributions to the sport, particularly in nurturing talent at both the grassroots and professional levels. As the mother of tennis champions Jamie and Sir Andy Murray, she has played a pivotal role in their development, initially coaching them before they transitioned to professional careers. Her coaching expertise extends beyond her family, having worked with numerous players at regional and national levels under the auspices of the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA).
Murray’s leadership capabilities were further recognized when she was appointed the captain of the British Fed Cup team in December 2011. During her tenure, she focused on promoting female coaches and addressing sexism in sports, making substantial strides in raising the profile of women’s contributions to tennis. Her dedication to the sport was honored in 2017 when she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to tennis, women in sport, and charity.
In addition to her coaching accolades, Murray has been awarded multiple honorary doctorates from esteemed universities, including the University of Edinburgh and the University of Stirling, recognizing her outstanding contributions to British sport. She is also a trustee of the Judy Murray Foundation, which aims to improve access to tennis opportunities across Scotland, demonstrating her commitment to fostering the next generation of players.
Murray’s versatility extends beyond tennis; she has appeared on popular television programs such as Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity MasterChef, showcasing her dynamic personality and broad appeal. Her published memoir, “Knowing the Score: My Family and Our Tennis Story,” co-written with Alexandra Heminsley, further highlights her journey and insights into the world of tennis, solidifying her status as a key figure in the sport.