In the most painful moments of his life, Andy Murray – the indomitable symbol of British tennis – could not hold back his tears when sharing about the passing of his grandmother Shirley Erskine, a woman he always called “one of a kind” – unique. This sad news was announced just a few weeks after grandfather Roy Erskine passed away on January 19, 2026 at the age of 94, turning the pain of loss into a continuous storm weighing heavily on the hearts of the Murray family.

Shirley Erskine, mother of coach Judy Murray and grandmother of brothers Andy and Jamie, passed away last week, according to an emotional sharing from her niece Ailsa Erskine – an actress – on Instagram. Ailsa wrote: “Our grandmother is gone. She was a woman who lit up every room she entered, always full of energy, love and laughter. We were lucky to grow up with such a woman.” The post quickly received thousands of likes and comments, including one from Andy Murray himself – a quiet but meaningful gesture, showing the pain he was trying to suppress.

Andy, who has overcome countless serious injuries, from a hip problem that required surgery and nearly retired him, to dramatic matches at Wimbledon and the US Open, now faces his deepest personal pain. Erskine’s family has always been a great source of motivation for his career. Roy Erskine, a former footballer who played for Hibernian, Stirling Albion and Cowdenbeath, is Judy’s father and Andy’s grandfather. He is known as a famous figure in Dunblane, the small town near Stirling where Andy and Jamie grew up.

Couple Roy and Shirley married in 1957, and together saw their two grandsons become top tennis players in the world, with Andy winning 3 Grand Slams (Wimbledon 2013 & 2016, US Open 2012) and an Olympic gold medal.

Shirley’s passing came just a few weeks after Roy’s, leaving the family in double mourning. Shirley once celebrated her 90th birthday at the Cromlix Hotel owned by Andy, where she was visited by her grandson and created warm moments together. She has always been a silent but enthusiastic supporter of her grandchildren’s careers, often appearing at big matches with a bright smile and undisguised pride. “She is the one who always reminds us of family values, of never giving up,” a family member shared.

The news spread quickly, leaving the world tennis community shocked and sending condolences. Many of Andy’s former colleagues and opponents such as Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer (although retired), and British tennis players have posted tributes.

Judy Murray, Andy’s mother, who has always been an emotional support for her children, also remained silent in her pain, only posting an old photo of her parents with a short caption: “Forever in our hearts.” The community of Dunblane – where the Erskine family lived and was loved – held small remembrances, with many locals recounting memories of the gentle couple, always ready to help their neighbours.

For Andy Murray, this is not just a personal loss but also the loss of two people who witnessed the journey from naughty boy in Dunblane to tennis legend. He once shared in interviews that his family was the biggest motivation for him to continue playing even though his body was screaming in pain. Now, when his career is in the final stages, with his final matches at major tournaments, this pain can deeply affect his psychology.

Many fans are worried that Andy – who is usually private about his personal life – will need time to heal before returning to the field.

Shirley’s funeral was held privately according to the family’s wishes, but tributes from the public still poured in. Stirling Albion, Roy’s former club, posted a tribute to both grandparents: “We are saddened by the passing of Roy and now Shirley – who have left such a beautiful mark on the community.” Other clubs such as Cowdenbeath and Hibernian also expressed their condolences.

As the tennis world continues to reel from tournaments, the moment Andy Murray broke down in tears as he revealed his grandmother has come to symbolize the fragility of life, even for the seemingly unbeatable. This double pain reminds us that behind the halo are ordinary people with fragile hearts. Andy Murray, who once cried for the joy of victory, now cries for the irreparable loss. The Erskine family has lost two pillars, but the legacy of love and strength they leave behind will forever be with Andy, Jamie and their loved ones.

This sad story is more than just a family’s loss – it’s a reminder of the value of loved ones who silently support us on every journey. Andy Murray must now be stronger than ever, not on the tennis court, but in his own life. 💔