Sunday, November 1, 2009

Agassi still my hero, says Murray

Andre Agassi and Andy Murray
British number one Murray refused to criticise Agassi

British number one Andy Murray says his view of childhood hero Andre Agassi has not changed despite him revealing he took drugs during his career.

American Agassi revealed in his new autobiography 'Open' that he took crystal methamphetamine in 1997.

But Murray, 22, has offered his support to the former world number one.

"I judge him as a tennis player; he was great, one of the best of all time. No one wants drugs in sport but everyone makes mistakes," said Murray.

"I don't think any of the players expected it but you've just got to move on.

Sometimes things like that happen. People get away with it sometimes but I don't think drugs in tennis is a big problem like it is in other sports

Andy Murray

"I loved Andre, met him numerous times. He was unbelievably nice to me. I practised with him quite a lot.

"I guess it's something he has to deal with him himself. He's entitled to say whatever he wants and I wish him the best."

Agassi also revealed in his book that he lied to tennis authorities to escape a ban but Murray, who has complained the current drug-testing system is too intrusive, is confident the sport does not have a problem.

"I didn't play in those times so I don't know what it was like," added Murray.

"There are even cases now where guys get off, with failed tests and contaminations - mistakes, like with the (Richard) Gasquet case [the Frenchman's ban for testing positive for cocaine this season was overturned].

"Sometimes things like that happen. People get away with it sometimes but I don't think drugs in tennis is a big problem like it is in other sports."

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