Tennis is full of lesbians: Court
SYDNEY: Australian great Margaret Court Wednesday claimed “tennis is full of lesbians” and transgender children were the work of “the devil”, adding fuel to a simmering row over her views on homosexuality. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, now a Christian pastor, has faced backlash after announcing last week she would stop flying Qantas “where possible” in protest at the airline’s support of same-sex marriage.
It sparked calls, led by Martina Navratilova and supported by Richel Hogenkamp, one of the few openly gay tennis players, for the Australian Open to take her name off one of its flagship stadiums.
Court, 74, has vowed to keep airing her views and didn’t hold back on Vision Christian Radio station.
“I mean, tennis is full of lesbians, because even when I was playing there was only a couple there, but those couple that led took young ones into parties and things,” she said.
“And you know, what you get at the top is often what you’ll get right through that sport.”
Court insisted she was not against gay people, but wanted to help them. “We’re there to help them overcome. We’re not against the people,” she said.
MURRAY CONDEMNS COMMENTS
World No.1 Andy Murray has joined a growing list of players to disagree with Court’s views but has urged players to resolve any conflicts before the next Australian Open.
“I don’t see why anyone has a problem with two people who love each other getting married,” Murray told reporters on Tuesday after his first round win.
“If it’s two men, two women, that’s great. I don’t see why it should matter. It’s not anyone else’s business. Everyone should have the same rights.”
“If something was to be done, I think it would be a lot more beneficial to do it before the tournament starts,” Murray said.