Tennis legend Jamie Murray 'very proud' after collecting honorary doctorate from Stirling University
Scottish tennis legend Jamie Murray returned to his roots as he spoke of his pride at receiving an Honorary Doctorate on Friday.
The seven time Grand Slam champion picked up the award from Stirling University for his contribution to Scottish and UK tennis, at Stirling’s winter graduation ceremony.
Jamie has also picked the Davis Cup and is a former world number one.
Growing up just a stones throw from the university, in nearby Dunblane, Jamie and younger brother Andy took their first steps in the sport at the university under the watchful eye of mum Judy who coached the brothers.
Judy and Andy are both Honorary Graduates of the university – Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence and home to the Scottish National Tennis Centre.
READ MORE: Amber weather warning issued for Stirling as Storm Bert gets set to bring heavy snow
Collecting his degree along with more than 400 other graduates at Friday afternoon’s ceremony, Jamie literally returned to his roots – the Scottish National Tennis Centre – where he and Andy both honed their skills as youngsters.
Jamie, who has claimed 32 ATP Tour doubles titles during his trophy-laden career, was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2016 Birthday Honours for services to tennis and charity. In 2023, he was named tournament director of the 2024 cinch Championships at the Queen’s Club.
Click here for more news and sport from the Stirling area.
Speaking after the ceremony, Jamie beamed: “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.
“I have fond memories of playing here and learning new skills as a young boy, and to be back to share this day with so many others who have experienced the power of sport to change and improve lives is incredible. It is an honour to be recognised by Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence.”
Also on Friday, retail and wholesale veteran Stanley Morrice became an Honorary Graduate.
Professor Sir Gerry McCormac, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Stirling, said: “Graduation is always a special occasion for the University – a time to celebrate with our graduates and their families and friends, and an opportunity to recognise the hard work and academic achievements of our students.
“We are proud to welcome two distinguished honorary graduates to our alumni community. Jamie and Stanley have each made a lasting impact on their sectors, and society. As such, they are excellent role models for our graduating students.”
In total, more than 1,000 students graduated from the University of Stirling this week. Three ceremonies were held across two days as students celebrated their academic achievements alongside their families, friends and university staff.