Andy Murray Wimbledon: Give Scot knighthood

MPs have called for Andy Murray to be knighted after his Wimbledon victory. Picture: PA

• MPs are calling for Andy Murray to be awarded a knighthood after winning Wimbledon

• SNP MP Pete Wishart is leading campaign to give Murray the honour

The 26-year-old became the first Briton to win the men’s singles final since Fred Perry in 1936, leading to suggestions he could soon become Sir Andy.

And Scottish National Party MP Pete Wishart (Perth and North Perthshire) has led the calls in the Commons for Murray’s knighthood by tabling an early day motion (EDM) in recognition of Sunday’s historic success.

He also highlighted that Murray is the first Scot to win the men’s title at SW19 since Harold Mahony in 1896.

Murray yesterday played down suggestions that his straight sets victory against Serbia’s Novak Djokovic deserved a knighthood.

Mr Wishart’s EDM has been signed by five more MPs including SNP’s Westminster leader Angus Robertson and Liberal Democrat Sir Bob Russell (Colchester).

The EDM states: “That this House congratulates Andy Murray on his victory in the men’s singles final at Wimbledon, a truly phenomenal feat; recognises him as the first Briton since 1936 and the first Scot in 117 years to win the men’s championship at Wimbledon; further congratulates him on being an inspiration to young tennis players; pays tribute to him and his support team; looks forward to him thrilling his tennis fans for years to come; and believes that he should join the long list of sporting greats by being awarded the honour of a knighthood.”

A second EDM, primarily sponsored by Conservative David Amess (Southend West), has also been put forward to congratulate Murray and recognise his “enormous dedication, commitment and determination” displayed throughout his career.

The motion, signed by eight more MPs, adds it wishes to “extend the gratitude of the whole nation in firmly establishing the Great in Britain for all tennis lovers”.

David Cameron hosted celebrations for two-time Grand Slam winner Murray yesterday and fuelled speculation the tennis star would be recommended for a knighthood.

The Prime Minister said Murray “lifted the spirits of the whole country” after he became the first Briton to win the men’s singles title for 77 years.

He said honours were decided independently but added: “I can’t think of anyone who deserves one more.”

But Murray, when questioned whether he deserved such an accolade, said he really did not know.

He said: “I think it’s a nice thing to have or be offered.

“I think just because everyone’s waited for such a long time for this, that’s probably why it’ll be suggested, but I don’t know if it merits that.

“I don’t know.”

Andy Murray Wimbledon: Give Scot knighthood - MPs