NO topspin is required:

Andy Murray, Scotland's finest tennis player, thoroughly deserves the acclamation of his kith and kin.

The Wimbledon champion, who spends most of his days globetrotting in the pursuit of sporting excellence, was proud to be back home yesterday. He was given the Freedom of Stirling at a special council meeting at his old school, Dunblane High, and was presented with an honorary doctorate at the University of Stirling, where he trained as a boy.

These days Murray is feted wherever he goes but, far from embracing a jetset lifestyle, he keeps his feet firmly on the ground and it is clear that home is where the heart is. He has a largely undeserved reputation for dourness. He famously said to a US journalist who questioned whether winning a Slam meant anything to him: "I'm very, very happy on the inside … I'm sorry if I'm not showing it how you want me to." But the emotion he showed at yesterday's events was plain for all to see.

Murray has always been grateful for his upbringing, and is continually striving to give something back to his community. That service has now been returned. Advantage Dunblane, Stirling and Scotland.