Tennis legend Jamie Murray ‘very proud’ after collecting honorary doctorate from Stirling University

Scottish tennis icon, Jamie Murray, expressed his immense pride as he received an Honorary Doctorate from Stirling University this past Friday. The seven-time Grand Slam champion was honoured for his significant contributions to Scottish and UK tennis at Stirling’s winter graduation ceremony. Jamie, who has also triumphed in the Davis Cup and held the title of former world number one, alongside younger brother Andy, kick-started their tennis journey just a stone’s throw away from the university in the neighbouring town of Dunblane. Under the guidance of their mother, Judy, who coached them, the brothers began their training at the university. Both Judy and Andy are also Honorary Graduates of the university which is renowned as Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence and houses the Scottish National Tennis Centre.

During the ceremony, Jamie, together with over 400 other graduates, received his degree at the Scottish National Tennis Centre, a place where his and Andy’s tennis skills were cultivated in their youth. Jamie has an impressive record of 32 ATP Tour doubles titles and was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2016 for his notable services to tennis and charity. In 2023, he assumed the role of tournament director for the 2024 cinch Championships at the Queen’s Club. Following the ceremony, Jamie shared his joy, stating, “I’m very proud to receive an honorary degree from the University of Stirling, and it is particularly special to me to be in the hall which normally serves as the National Tennis Centre – a place where I started my tennis journey.”

The Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Stirling, Professor Sir Gerry McCormac, commended Jamie and another Honorary Graduate, retail and wholesale veteran Stanley Morrice, for their lasting impact on their respective fields. More than 1,000 students celebrated their academic achievements alongside family, friends, and university staff during the week, with three ceremonies taking place across two days at the university.

In conclusion, the event at Stirling University honoured Jamie Murray for his exceptional achievements in tennis, highlighting his journey from humble beginnings near the university to becoming a renowned figure in the sport. The ceremony also acknowledged the significant contributions of other distinguished individuals, reinforcing the university’s commitment to recognising excellence and inspiring its graduating students.