Andy Murray praised for 'powerful words' as he makes gender statement at Australian Open

ByEurosport

Published 05/05/2015 at 14:53 GMT

Andy Murray won the admiration of women across the world after making a stand for gender equality in sport following his Australian Open win over Tomas Berdych.

Skip to 2:33 in the video above to get straight to the point

Murray spoke warmly of the work done by his coach, Amelie Mauresmo, whose appointment was notable as it is a rarity to see a woman coach an elite man.

But after reaching his first Grand Slam final since Wimbledon in 2013, Murray said the coaching doors should be opened to more women.

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“A lot of people criticised me working with her and I think so far this week we have showed that women can be very good coaches as well," he said.

“Madison Keys, who reached the semis here and had her best tournament, is also coached by a woman in Lindsay Davenport and I see no reason why that can’t keep moving forward like that in the future.

“I am very thankful to Amelie for doing it – it was I would say a brave choice from her to do it and hopefully I can repay her in a few days [in the final].”

[SEXISM STORM OVER BOUCHARD TWIRL REQUEST]

Murray's principled stance was a welcome one in a tournament which has already witnessed accusations of sexism from one post-match interviewer, who asked Eugenie Bouchard to "give us a twirl."

And the Scot's backing of female coaches was warmly received by watching fans.

Great match from @andy_murray and wise words on the value of women coaches. Not that I am biased, much! Good work @AmeMauresmo!! — magenta change (@magentachange) January 29, 2015

Good on Andy Murray for bigging up women coaches in post-match interview. Though interviewer would probably ask them to give him a twirl.— Vikki Orvice (@vikkiorvice) January 29, 2015

Nice speech from @andy_murray after his win. Nice to hear top player speak highly about women coaching! @AmeMauresmo@lafeyne09— Gwladys Nocera (@GlaNocera) January 29, 2015

Well said @andy_murray, helping fly the flag for women coaches @ThisGirlCanUK@Womeninsport_uk— Claire Norman (@cnorman21) January 29, 2015

Seriously loving @andy_murray right now. Powerful words. Women can be great coaches... Too right. @AustralianOpen@judmoo— Gabriella Hay (@haygab55) January 29, 2015

Well said . Good to hear your view of female coaches, important message for women in sport @AmeMauresmo— Marise Payne (@MarisePayne) January 29, 2015

OMG I love @andy_murray for saying what he just said about @AmeMauresmo@LDavenport76 and women coaches! — rennae stubbs (@rennaestubbs) January 29, 2015

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