Dunblane’s delighted for Andy and Jamie
They people of Dunblane walked into work with an extra spring in their step on Monday morning knowing their town was home to two tennis world number ones.
Many locals spent the weekend glued to their televisions as Andy Murray cemented his place as the best singles player on the planet while brother Jamie became one half of the top doubles team.
Andy’s victory over Novak Djokovic on Sunday evening saw him win the ATP World Tour Finals for the very first time ,while Jamie and partner Bruno Soares retained their top spot in the men’s doubles despite losing in the semi-finals at the O2.
Tom Casey is chair of local group Discover Dunblane and was impressed with Andy’s ability to overcome his arch rival despite a gruelling semi-final with Milos Raonic a day earlier.
The 61-year-old said:“I watched it all and Andy was awesome. He came on court on Sunday night with a steeliness and determination. I thought he made Djokovic look like the underdog. He’s got such mental strength and incredible skill to match it.
“Jamie has also had a fantastic year – it’s quite hard to take in how well they have both done. I think their successes help spur one another on.”
Nikki Farthing from the Charisma store on High Street said:“Andy has done fantastically well. What he has achieved is great for the area and he deserves every bit of it.
“I also like the fact that he hasn’t forgotten his roots – he was married here and I think he is passionate about the town. He has certainly done Dunblane proud.”
In the nearby designer florist – The Secret Garden – boss Nicola Kitt spoke of her pride at the brothers’achievements. She said:“I am delighted for both Andy and Jamie – they have been amazing. I couldn’t watch Andy’s match on Sunday as I was in the shop but I was really happy to hear he had won.”
Archie Paterson, 81, from the neighbouring Archie’s shop, said: “Andy was tired for his match but he did wonderfully well.
“It used to always be that you would watch him play and hope he’s going to win. Now you expect that he’s going to win.
“Both Andy and Jamie are very talented boys and I hope they can continue this into next year.”
Also keen to speak about the ATP Tour Finals success was 16-year-old David Nairn, who was working in G.S Meldrum newsagents. He said:“Andy seemed confident when he went out on court and he deserved to win.
“For both him and Jamie to be world number ones makes you feel really proud.
“I think they have inspired more people to take up the sport.”
Cally Fleming added:“It’s fantastic for Dunblane for both boys to be number one. Andy really had to dig deep to win on Sunday as he looked shattered before the match.
“Everyone is really happy for the Murray and Erskine family.”