Andy Murray has defended his fiancée Kim Sears after she was caught on camera apparently swearing at his opponent in the Australian Open semi-final. The expletive-laden rant, which has gone viral on social media, took place in the first set of Andy's tense four-set win over Tomas Berdych. Asked about the incident, and the tension evident throughout the match – during which there also appeared to be heated words from both players - Andy replied: "In the heat of the moment, you can say stuff that you regret."
Andy Murray has defended Kim Sears following her outburst
The tennis star said the atmosphere came down to the pre-match focus on his former coach, Dani Vallberdu, who is now working with Czech star Tomas. "When there's a lot of tension surrounding something, which you created, it's completely normal that the whole first set everyone was tight," Andy said. "Even Tomas, who very rarely says anything on the court… there was tension there for him as well."
Andy Murray went on to beat Tomas Berdych in the tense semi-final
Andy beat Tomas 6-7, 6-0, 6-3, 7-5 to reach his first Grand Slam final since his triumph at Wimbledon two years ago. He will face either Serbian star Novak Djokovic or Switzerland's Stan Wawrinka in the Australian Open final on Sunday. Andy's dedicated fiancée, who regularly travels around the world to support her long-term love, will no doubt once again be in the stands.
Kim Sears pictured celebrating Andy's win on Thursday
It wasn't just Kim's colourful choice of language that got people talking at Thursday's semi-final – so too did her impressive engagement ring. Andy and Kim have been engaged since November, and this week fans got a clear look at her dazzling new accessory, which is estimated to have a value of £150,000 - £200,000.