Judy Murray gets honorary degree from Abertay University

Tennis coach Judy Murray has been awarded an honorary degree for her “outstanding contribution to sport”.

Ms Murray was awarded an honorary doctorate of education in an awards ceremony at Abertay University in Dundee alongside 200 graduates on Friday in the city’s Caird Hall.

She was joined by best-selling author and journalist Matthew Syed and video games composer and musician Rob Hubbard, who were also awarded for their services to science and music.

Ms Murray said she was “absolutely thrilled” to receive the award.

She added: “It’s always an honour to be recognised in your own country but this is a doctor of education.

“I knew when I was at school, I wanted to be a PE teacher and I ended up as a sports coach, which is the same in many ways.

“I completely understand the value of teachers, professors and lecturers in terms of how they shape and influence young people.

“I love what Abertay stands for. I love the innovation. It’s cool, modern and thinks outside the box, and I really like that.”

It has been a stellar year for the Murray family, with both Judy’s sons Andy and Jamie finishing 2016 as world number one tennis players.

Andy Murray won Wimbledon and Olympic gold before finishing the season with his 24th straight victory to lift the ATP World Tour Finals trophy and clinch the year-end world number one ranking.

His brother Jamie reached the number one ranking in men’s doubles tennis earlier this year.

Professor Nigel Seaton, principal and vice-chancellor of Abertay University, said: “We are proud to award honorary degrees to Judy Murray, Matthew Syed and Rob Hubbard today.

“Their outstanding achievements are the result of hard work, determination and perseverance, and at Abertay University we are proud to hold them as exemplary and inspiring leaders.”

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