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Andy Murray’s plea for more tennis investment meets instant return

Shona Robison with young players at the Gannochy National Tennis Centre.
Shona Robison with young players at the Gannochy National Tennis Centre.

The Scottish Government set aside almost £6 million to spend on tennis facilities the day after Andy Murray called for greater investment in the sport.

The public money will be used to upgrade courts in parks and pay for local development officers who will encourage more people to play.

The cash boost was announced at Gannochy National Tennis Centre at the University of Stirling on Tuesday.

Announcing the funding, sports minister Shona Robison said: “Andy’s win was an emotional moment for Scotland and the whole country has been inspired by his brilliant performance.

“We want to see more people playing tennis and having access to top-quality facilities to get fit, try something new, and have fun.

“This money is all about making sure the right facilities are there to help people get more active, as well as helping to create the tennis stars of the future to keep those Wimbledon wins coming.”

The four-year investment stream includes £2 million for up to four indoor tennis centres “where there is demand”.

Chief executive of sportscotland Stewart Harris said: “It’s important that we take this unique chance to help grow the game in Scotland by providing more and better opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to play, and to assist the young players of today to emulate their hero from Dunblane by becoming the stars of tomorrow.”

The sport’s governing body Tennis Scotland will receive £1.8 million, after its membership rose by 45% since 2008.

Speaking after his win on Sunday, Andy Murray said: “I hope kids start playing more tennis, but for that to happen there needs to be all the right facilities.”

Tennis Scotland chief executive David Marshall said: “Never in the history of the game has tennis enjoyed such a level of profile in this country, and today’s announcement greatly enhances Tennis Scotland’s ability to take advantage of what is a huge opportunity to significantly increase levels of participation throughout the country.”

The team leading Stirling’s bid to host the new National Performance Centre for Sport also welcomed the cash boost.

Part of the money is to be invested at the National Tennis Centre, based at the Stirling University campus.

Principal and vice-chancellor Professor Gerry McCormac said: “Andy and his brother Jamie are backing our bid to host the National Performance Centre for Sport.

“We must invest in facilities to improve elite performance.”