Australian Open to celebrate Margaret Court despite views on same-sex marriage

Australian Open to celebrate Margaret Court despite views on same-sex marriage

Tennis Australia has announced Margaret Court as a “special guest” at next year’s Australian Open, despite disagreeing with her controversial views on same-sex marriage.

The colossal event will feature a celebration of Court’s career and mark the milestone of her completing a grand slam 50 years ago.

In a statement, Tennis Australia distanced itself from Court’s views, according to ABC News.

“Tennis Australia respects Margaret’s unmatched tennis career and welcomes her to the Australian Open, particularly in this milestone anniversary year,” the statement read.

“As often stated, Tennis Australia does not agree with Margaret’s personal views, which have demeaned and hurt many in our community over a number of years.

“They do not align with our values of equality, diversity and inclusion.”

Court has won 24-grand-slam titles over the course of her career including the Australian Open, Wimbledon, French Open and US Open. To mark her achievements, Court and her family and friends have been invited to the 2020 Australian Open as special guests.

Tennis Australia also said they it was planning an in-stadium entertainment celebrating Court’s life and spent a day with her in June filming a short documentary.

Court has landed herself in hot water over the past few years for her loud opposition to same-sex marriage including an open letter to Qantas threatening to boycott the airline over its support during the plebiscite.

The 76-year-old is now a pastor at Victory Life Church in Perth.

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