An official invitation was made to the nation's most successful female player at the weekend, but came with a backhander at her widely publicised views opposing gay marriage.

"I have been in contact with Tennis Australia and our family is looking forward to celebrate Margaret's 50^th anniversary of her grand slam at the Australian Open," Mr Shanahan said.

The border tennis academy is named in Court's honour.

But Court's children have taken exception to Tennis Australia reinforcing its previous opposition to her views.

In a statement, the four children Daniel, Marika, Teresa and Lisa said they were "disappointed" by governing body's position.

"As mum is a minister of religion it is her job to stand for Biblical principles," the statement said.

"Mum has always been very Bible-based in her Christian beliefs and that is the reason why we have such a strong loving family.

"It is hard for her family to understand how her current lifestyle would possibly affect her tennis career in any way.

"It is disappointing to see Tennis Australia in the open letter amalgamating her sporting career which she won for the nation."

The Tennis Australia statement said: "TA respects Margaret's unmatched tennis career and welcomes her to the Australian Open, particularly in this milestone anniversary year.

"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.

"Our sport welcomes everyone, no matter what gender, ability, race, religion or sexuality, and we will continue to actively promote inclusion initiatives widely at all levels of the sport."