UK NEWS

MURRAY BOYS HAVE TALENT - NOT PUSHY PARENTS

Judy Murray

Friday June 27,2008

By Kevin Turner

Andy and Jamie Murray may be among the world’s best tennis players, but it is all their own work.

Their mother, Judy, 48, the former Scottish national coach, believes pushy parents can do their offspring more harm than good.

Andy’s success is mirrored by Jamie’s mixed doubles win at Wimbledon last year.

Last night, Judy warned over-zealous parents not to live their thwarted dreams through their children. One of the worst examples she saw was at the under-14 indoor championships in France, a crucial shop window for talent.

I have seen some horrible examples of verbal and physical abuse of younger players

Judy Murray

Judy admitted: “I have seen some horrible examples of verbal and physical abuse of younger players.

“There was a child who had been expected to do well. The parent was abusing her outside one of the halls. There is a danger that parents see the success of the child as a means to financial security or fame, or that they just hope the child will fulfil the dreams they didn’t manage.”

Judy has pages on the Lawn Tennis Association’s website advising parents how best to support, not suffocate, their offspring.

Women’s tennis has had its share of parents who have hit the headlines. Damir Dokic, whose daughter, Jelena, once reached the Wimbledon semi-finals, was notorious for his attitude, bad temper and battles with tournament authorities.

Peter Graf, father of former number one Steffi, was dubbed “Papa Merciless” by the German press.

And Grand Slam winner Mary Pierce took out a restraining order against her father, Jim, who was also banned from the women’s tennis tour for abusing players.