Andy Murray admits becoming a feminist

World number three says media and critics' sexist treatment against her female coach changed his perception

Briton tennis star Andy Murray says he has become a feminist after her coach Amélie Mauresmo received sexist treatment and criticism at the hands of media and critics.

The world number three tennis player wrote in his blog, inL’Équipe, that he knew that his appointment of Mauresmo would be controversial because few male tennis players have female coaches.

“I realised it would create a feeling of suspicion, mistrust and perhaps even negativity. I didn’t realise, however, that Amélie would find herself up against such criticism and prejudice. The staggering thing was that she was slated every time I lost, which is something my former coaches never ever experienced.”

Murray asked if he had become a feminist, said “Well, if being a feminist is about fighting so that a woman is treated like a man then yes, I suppose I have. My upbringing means that I’m quite attuned to the whole thing. I came to tennis thanks to my mother. I always had a very close relationship with my grandmothers. I’ve always been surrounded by women. I find it easier to talk to them. I find it easier to open up to them. It’s a crying shame there aren’t more female coaches.”

The article originally published on Time.com