Raymond Moore (tennis)

Raymond Moore is a South African former professional tennis player and tennis administrator. He is best known for his controversial comments regarding women's tennis in 2016 while serving as the tournament director of the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California.

Moore played professional tennis in the 1960s and 1970s, achieving a career-high singles ranking of World No. 34. He competed in Grand Slam tournaments, reaching the fourth round of the French Open in 1968. He was also a successful doubles player.

Following his playing career, Moore transitioned into tennis administration. He held various positions, including CEO of the BNP Paribas Open and tournament director of several other events.

In March 2016, during a press conference at the BNP Paribas Open, Moore made comments suggesting that women's tennis players "ride on the coattails" of men and should "get down on their knees and thank God" for the success of male players. These remarks were widely condemned as sexist and discriminatory. Major figures in the tennis world, including Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic, publicly criticized Moore's statements.

Following the backlash, Moore issued an apology for his remarks. However, he resigned from his position as CEO and tournament director of the BNP Paribas Open shortly thereafter. The incident sparked a broader discussion about gender equality and sexism within the sport of tennis.