Andy Murray earns praise for calling out '˜casual sexism'

Andy Murray has been praised for calling out a reporter's remark that has been classed as 'casual sexism' and 'ignorant'.

Andy Murray wasn't happy with the way a reporter phrased his question during yesterday's press conference. Picture: PA

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The world number one did not look amused when he had to remind the journalist of the success of US female tennis players after their achievements seemed to be overlooked.

Murray’s mother Judy was one of many people to commend him, saying: “That’s my boy.”

Polly Neate, the chief executive of Women’s Aid (a charity for ending domestic abuse against women and children), said it “would be good if more men in more walks of life followed this example. Well played Andy Murray.”

Taking part in a press conference after being knocked out of Wimbledon by Sam Querrey, an American journalist asked Murray: “Sam is the first US player to reach a major semi-final since 2009, how would you describe…”

Murray then interjected to say: “Male player.”

Not hearing what the tennis player had said, the journalist asked for clarification: “I beg your pardon?”

Murray repeated himself, to which the reporter replied: “Yes, first male player, that’s for sure, how would you describe the adjustments he made today in his overall game?”

American player Serena Williams won Wimbledon in 2016 – her seventh such victory – and her sister Venus progressed to this year’s semi-finals earlier this week.

SNP leader and Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also praised Murray. She said: “What a star [he] is – on and off the court.”

Labour MP David Lammy said “much respect”.

The Women’s Tennis Association welcomed Murray’s quick reminder, posting on its website “all the American women who’ve reached the semi-finals [in a Grand Slam tournament] or better since 2009”.

Murray crashed out of the Wimbledon tournament after a five-set battle against Querrey.

On Wednesday, Johanna Konta became the first British woman to win a place in the Wimbledon semi-finals since 1978.