Watch CBS News

Roger Federer, Andy Murray: No Problem For Gay Tennis Players

ROME (CBSNewYork/AP) — Roger Federer and Andy Murray believe there would be no problem if a men's tennis player comes out as gay.

The second- and third-ranked players were asked about the possibility Sunday at the Italian Open after NBA veteran Jason Collins recently became the first active player in any of the four major U.S. professional sports leagues to come out.

"I don't think it would be a problem," Federer said. "We're very relaxed. We don't play a team sport and see each other all the time. ... We're very open. So whatever happens, happens. I don't know if there are any. So far from what I've heard, no. But that could change, possibly because of the case in the NBA."

Murray said "there have to be some players who are probably gay" in tennis.

"I don't think other players have any issues with it and hope tennis deals with this well," he said. "I saw the Jason Collins thing in basketball and the player and the owners were respectful and happy about his decision and so I think it is a good thing."

You May Also Be Interested In These Stories

(TM and © Copyright 2013 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2013 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.