Sir Andy Murray says it "means a lot" to tennis players to see members of the royal family at Wimbledon.

The British tennis legend recently spent the afternoon with Catherine, Princess of Wales at the All England Club and believes that the presence of royalty - with Catherine serving as the club's patron - is what makes the Grand Slam tournament so unique.

Murray, 39, told HELLO! magazine: "I think it means a lot to the players and to tennis fans to see the royal family at Wimbledon. It's part of the tradition of Wimbledon and the fans really like that, especially the overseas fans."

The two-time Wimbledon winner also reflected on the "fun afternoon" he had with avid tennis fan Catherine, 44, as they watched British player Katie Swan against American Madison Keys in the second round of the tournament last week.

Murray said: "Yes, it was a fun afternoon. She is definitely a tennis fan and she plays a bit herself, I think.

"I think she also plays padel. We watched the Katie Swan and Madison Keys match, so it was good to be watching a British player together."

Murray brought his tennis career to an end in 2024 and admits that he is "loving" getting to spend more time with his wife Kim and their four children.

The former world number one said: "I'm loving it.

"It's the best part of being retired from tennis. I was away for so much of my career and always really missed my family, so I love being able to be part of their day-to-day life now.

"I go to as many things as I can with the children - the school run, sports matches, chess club - it's brilliant. I know I'm very fortunate to be able to do it now."

Meanwhile, Murray is set to be honoured with a life-size bronze statue at the All England Club in honour of his achievements at Wimbledon and says he is "really happy" with what he has seen from the sculptor.

He said: "Well, it's a huge honour and I'm very grateful to the All England Club for honouring my career in this way.

"I've already met with the sculptor a few times and it's been quite a fun process working with him on the early stages of the statue. I was a bit nervous it wouldn't look like me, but I'm really happy with what I've seen so far."