Olympics Rio 2016: Andy Murray corrects John Inverdale over gender error in interview

Murray, who beat Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro 7-5 4-6 6-2 7-5 in the final and take the gold medal, is the first person to successfully defend their title in the Olympic event. However, despite the impressive feat, he is far from the most decorated Olympic tennis player.

Speaking to the BBC after the win, three-time grand slam winner Murray was quick to respond to John Inverdale, who congratulated him for becoming the first tennis player to win two gold medals.

He said: "Venus and Serena have won four each."

Though the comment was more than likely a genuine mix-up by Inverdale, it is not the first time the pundit has made the headlines for comments perceived as sexist and tennis fans took to social media to criticise gaffe-prone Inverdale for failing to acknowledge the achievements of the sporting sisters.

In 2013 the BBC received numerous complaints after Inverdale commented newly crowned Wimbledon champion Marion Bartolli was "never going to be a looker."

Despite a disappointing time at Rio, with one silver medal between them, both Venus and Serena have won golds in the singles event in 2000 and 2012 respectively, as well as in the women's doubles tournament with each other in 2000, 2008 and 2012. Venus won a silver medal in the mixed doubles event on Sunday with partner Rajeev Ram.

Serena Williams made history herself this year, equalling Steffi Graf's record of 22 Grand Slam victories. Speaking after her momentous Wimbledon victory Williams was asked by a journalist about being "one of the greatest female athletes of all time".

Williams replied: "I prefer the word 'one of the greatest athletes of all time."