Judy Murray — one of Britain’s most respected tennis figures and tireless advocate for youth sport — is making headlines again, but this time it’s not for a racquet or a coaching session. It’s for a passionate plea that could reshape education: PE should be a priority in every school curriculum.
In a shocking yet heartfelt address earlier this week, Murray didn’t hold back. Between expanding her pioneering girls’ sports scheme and speaking out about the struggles young people face today, her message was clear: the way we approach physical education in schools is broken. And she believes the consequences are far deeper than just fewer children on the playing field.
“It’s not about creating elite athletes,” she said. “It’s about giving every child a fair chance to grow strong, confident and resilient. Right now, too many girls — and boys — are being left behind.”
Her call comes at a time when childhood inactivity, rising stress levels, and the pressures of academic performance have left many young people disengaged — mentally and physically. Murray argues that quality PE isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. It builds teamwork, self-belief, emotional balance and a lifelong love for movement. Yet in countless schools, P.E. has been squeezed, sidelined, or treated as filler rather than a foundation.
To combat this, Murray is expanding her girls’ sports initiative, aiming to reach schools and communities where physical education is minimal or nearly obsolete. The program isn’t just about tennis — it’s about empowerment. Encouraging girls to lead, challenge themselves, and thrive in environments where confidence is often shy and doubt can be loud.
And reactions from parents, teachers and students have been immediate: heartfelt stories of children who found their voice through sport, regained energy, made friends, or felt seen for the first time. Some shared emotional messages online: “My daughter learned strength here,” “PE gave her purpose,” “This scheme saved her confidence.”
Murray’s campaign transcends gender. While she pushes for a future where girls have equal access to sport and encouragement to participate, her vision includes every child — tall, short, quiet, loud, naturally athletic or just beginning.
For her, it’s never been about trophies or headlines. It’s about opportunity, inclusion and giving every young person the physical and emotional tools to thrive.
And as schools and policymakers take note, this might be more than a push for PE — it could be the start of a revolution in how we raise our children: stronger bodies, sharper minds, and braver hearts, one class at a time.
