The world of tennis and Scottish sport has lost a beloved figure.
Roy Erskine, grandfather to tennis star Andy Murray, passed away at the age of 94.
Known not only for his own sporting achievements but also for nurturing talent in the next generation, Erskine left behind a legacy that touches both football and tennis.
Tributes have been pouring in from clubs, fans, and the local community in Dunblane, where he spent much of his life.
Football Career and Local Legacy
Roy Erskine made his mark as a Scottish footballer in the 1950s, featuring as a defender for clubs such as Stirling Albion and Cowdenbeath.
Stirling Albion shared their condolences, highlighting his presence at club hospitality events with his daughter, Judy, where he loved reminiscing about his playing days.
The club also fondly remembered his role in celebrating their League 2 championship victory in the 2022-23 season.
Erskine’s football journey began with Peebles Rovers, Hibernian, and Troon, before joining Stirling Albion in 1954.
After two years, he moved to Cowdenbeath, returning briefly to Albion to close out his career in 1958.
Beyond the pitch, he was a respected figure in Dunblane, working as an optician and engaging warmly with the local community.
A Tennis Influence in the Family
While football was his first sporting love, Roy’s influence extended to tennis, a passion he shared with his wife Shirley.
Both were talented players in their own right, with Roy reaching the semi-finals of the Scottish Boys’ Tennis Championships in his youth.
Even after retiring from football, he remained active on the tennis court, passing his love and skill for the game to his grandchildren, Andy and Jamie Murray.
In interviews, Erskine recalled how competitive the boys were from a young age.
“Andy didn’t like it when I played drop shots or sliced the ball,” he said.
“He would say, ‘For goodness’ sake Grandpa, play properly and stop doing those twiddly shots.’”
Despite the playful banter, he admitted he sometimes thought he knew the best moves on court, showing his pride in their developing talent.
Fond Memories from Clubs and Community
Cowdenbeath also paid tribute, highlighting Erskine’s humor and popularity over the years.
“Roy joined us to celebrate Cowdenbeath’s title win back in 2006, and he was always a welcome guest at Central Park,” the club said.
They joked about his claim to have invented topspin, while also acknowledging the undeniable contribution he and Shirley made to Scottish tennis through their grandchildren.
For many, Roy Erskine was more than a former athlete—he was a mentor, a supporter, and a cherished member of his community.
His influence lives on through Andy and Jamie, whose achievements in tennis reflect the sporting spirit he helped instill.
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