MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA — Tennis legend Andy Murray, known for his relentless competitive spirit, has reportedly signed up for lessons in a new sport after a humbling defeat—not by a fellow professional, but by his five-year-old son, Teddy. The surprising revelation came after a family session at their local tennis club, where the former world No. 1 was outplayed by his preschooler in a game of pickleball.
Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, admitted to the BBC that the loss was a wake-up call. "I thought I’d have a bit of fun with Teddy, but he absolutely destroyed me. He’s got a natural talent for it—way better than I was at his age," Murray said with a laugh. The 37-year-old Scot, who retired from professional tennis in 2024, has since enrolled in beginner pickleball classes to close the gap.
From Wimbledon to Pickleball: A New Challenge
Pickleball, a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has surged in popularity worldwide, particularly among retirees and young families. Murray’s unexpected foray into the sport highlights its accessibility and appeal. "It’s faster than I expected, and the paddle takes some getting used to," he admitted. "But it’s refreshing to learn something new."
The incident occurred during a casual family outing at the Hurlingham Club in London, where Teddy, already a budding athlete, insisted on playing pickleball instead of tennis. Murray, ever the supportive father, agreed—only to find himself outmaneuvered by his son’s quick reflexes and unorthodox shots. "He was diving for balls, laughing the whole time. Meanwhile, I was sweating just trying to keep up," Murray recalled.
Fatherhood and Fitness: A Balancing Act
Since retiring, Murray has embraced a quieter life, focusing on family and fitness. His wife, Kim Sears, joked to The Times: "Andy’s used to being the best in the house at sports. Teddy’s brought him down a peg or two—it’s hilarious."
Murray’s transition from elite athlete to pickleball novice hasn’t been without its challenges. His competitive streak remains intact, as evidenced by his rigorous training schedule:
- Twice-weekly pickleball lessons with a local coach
- Daily practice sessions with Teddy in their backyard court
- Studying professional pickleball matches for strategy tips
Despite the lighthearted nature of the story, Murray’s dedication is unmistakable. "I might not be winning Wimbledon again, but I’ll be damned if I let a five-year-old show me up forever," he quipped. His coach, Mark Hilton, confirmed Murray’s progress: "He’s improving fast. Give him a few months, and he’ll be giving Teddy a run for his money."
The Rise of Pickleball Among Athletes
Murray isn’t the only tennis star to dabble in pickleball. Former players like Andre Agassi and John McEnroe have participated in exhibition matches, while active ATP and WTA players often use it for cross-training. The sport’s shorter rallies and smaller court size make it an ideal low-impact alternative for retired athletes.
Pickleball’s global growth has even sparked discussions about its potential inclusion in the Olympics. The International Pickleball Federation (IPF) reported a 40% increase in registered players since 2023, with celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Emma Stone among its fans. Murray, however, remains focused on his immediate goal: "Right now, I just want to beat my kid. Everything else is a bonus."
A Lesson in Humility and Fun
For Murray, the experience has been a reminder of the joys of sport beyond competition. "Tennis was my life for so long, but there’s something freeing about playing just for fun. Teddy doesn’t care about rankings or titles—he just loves hitting the ball. That’s a lesson I needed." Whether he ever surpasses his son’s skills remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Murray household’s pickleball rivalry is just getting started.