After six months without a coach, Novak Djokovic taps longtime rival Andy Murray for a partnership aimed at success in Melbourne
In a surprising yet natural move, Novak Djokovic has explained his decision to hire Andy Murray as his coach for the upcoming Australian Open. The Serbian tennis legend, who has been without a coach for six months, spoke candidly about the reasoning behind this collaboration during a visit to Argentina for a farewell exhibition match for Juan Martín del Potro.
Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, has long shared a fierce rivalry with Murray. The two players, who started facing each other as juniors, have contested 36 professional matches, with Djokovic holding a dominant 25-11 head-to-head record. Despite their rivalry, Djokovic emphasized the deep respect he has for Murray and the natural fit he believes their working relationship will be.
“He knows my game and everything I’ve been through very well,” Djokovic said in Spanish at a press conference. “He knows the things that are wrong with my game, all of my mistakes.” This insight, paired with Murray’s experience of winning three Grand Slam titles and two Olympic golds, makes him a valuable resource for Djokovic as he prepares for the Australian Open in January.
Murray, who ended his playing career after the Paris Olympics in August, is also a former world No. 1 and brings invaluable experience to the table. Djokovic, currently ranked No. 7 in the ATP standings, reflected on the years of competition between the two, recognizing Murray’s deep understanding of the game.
The partnership comes after Djokovic parted ways with Goran Ivanisevic in March. With the Australian Open on the horizon, the collaboration with Murray is seen as a strategic move for the Serbian, who is aiming to continue his dominance in the sport.
In Buenos Aires, Djokovic also participated in the farewell match for del Potro, where the Argentine claimed victory 6-4, 7-5. Despite their intense competition over the years, Djokovic emphasized that their friendship had always been stronger than the rivalry, underscoring the celebratory nature of the event.
