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Tennis ace Andy Murray was a hit with children at a Dubai school this week. The British No 1 seed found time for a quick visit to the Dubai English Speaking School (DESS), in Bur Dubai, before heading back to get prepared for the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships 2008.
And even though he spilled the beans about his tennis, it was his life off the court the children were most interested in.
When asked what his favourite thing to do was when he isn't playing tennis he said: "I have a Nintendo Wii which I try to
play as much as I can. I also follow other sports, particularly football and my sporting idol is Mohammad Ali. My tennis
heroes growing-up were Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras."
'An Easy Choice'
The tennis star delighted hundreds of school children ahead of his first round match against world No 1 and reigning Dubai Champion Roger Federer last night.
Murray happily answered questions from more than 400 excited children about his life both on and off the court, after a brief introduction from the school's headteacher.
The 20-year-old said: "I was never very good at school, so tennis was an easy choice.
"I come from a sporting family which really helped. My mum is the national tennis coach of Scotland and my brother Jamie is a very good tennis player as well."
Murray was also asked questions by the awe-struck school children, who had clearly done their research, about his on court pursuits and most challenging moments.
He said: "My most challenging match would have to be in the Australian Open last year against Nadal. It went to five sets and although I lost, it was a great match."
Down to Earth
Headteacher David Hammond was particularly impressed with Murray and commented on his success and down-to earth attitude.
He said: "Andy Murray is only 20 years old, but already has an impressive five singles titles to his name. We wish him the
best of luck in his career and are very grateful that he visited DESS.
"All the staff were thrilled and I heard a little girl in year three tell her mum 'we had Andy Murray in school today.' So
all the children were delighted to see their hero and I'm certain he was a sure hit."
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