British number one Andy Murray has claimed that he has "a lot of respect" for popstars like One Direction due to the amount of "hysteria and fame" that they have to deal with.

Band members Niall Horan and Liam Payne visited Centre Court at the All England Club during the first week of Wimbledon, but they were welcomed with screaming fans upon their arrival.

After being crowned Wimbledon champion last year, Murray has revealed that he received more attention than normal, but is relieved that he can carry on his regular routine with girlfriend Kim Sears without much hassle.

"I have a lot of respect for anyone that has to deal with that level of hysteria and fame," ESPN quotes Murray as saying.

"I'm still quite fortunate, I can put a cap on and walk my dogs with Kim and go relatively unnoticed. I can't imagine what it would be like if every time I left the house there were crowds of screaming fans.

"It must be tough, but then at the same time, if it weren't for those screaming fans then they wouldn't be as huge as they are. So I guess everything comes at a price."

Murray will take on South African Kevin Anderson in the fourth round this afternoon as he attempts to defend his Wimbledon title.