Novak Djokovic shares New Year’s Eve message to his new coach Andy Murray, who’s skiing

Novak Djokovic had a New Year’s Eve message for his newly appointed coach, Andy Murray, after his first-round victory against Rinky Hijikata at the Brisbane International. Djokovic, clearly in high spirits, joked about Murray’s family skiing trip, sending his warm regards to the Murray family but with a light-hearted request.

“He is skiing at the moment. He has a family skiing trip. Sending my love to all the Murray family,” Djokovic said during his on-court interview, adding with a grin, “I hope he doesn’t get injured skiing before he comes to Melbourne. That wouldn’t be great.” The remark drew laughter from the crowd, but it also highlighted the excitement and camaraderie that has developed between the two former rivals.

The 37-year-old Murray, now Djokovic’s coach, had spoken to the Serbian before the match, with the two keeping in close contact as they prepare for the upcoming Australian Open. Djokovic, who is targeting a record-extending 25th major title at Melbourne Park, is set to have Murray by his side during the tournament.

The collaboration between Djokovic and Murray, which was announced in November, marks a significant shift from their long-standing rivalry. “Just overall, a very nice and strange feeling to have him on the same side of the court,” Djokovic reflected. “We have been rivals for 20-plus years and always kind of kept secrets from each other about the way we practised, the way we prepared, and the way we approached the matches. Never wanted to show weakness to your main opponents, your rivals.”

However, now that they are on the same team, Djokovic is already seeing the benefits of working with the British legend. “To have a legend of the game, someone that is known to be an intelligent tennis player, it’s a great honour, great pleasure for me,” Djokovic shared. “I love talking to him about the nuances, the details, how I can improve my game, how I can gain an inch, more court positioning, compared to my opponent. And every bit of percentage counts at the highest level.”

Although Djokovic and Murray have not yet spent too many days on the court together, the Serbian is eager to continue their work ahead of the Australian Open.

Djokovic, who finished the 2024 season with a 37-9 match record, will play Gael Monfils on Wednesday for a chance to advance to the quarter-finals in Brisbane. Djokovic has dominated their previous encounters, holding a perfect 19-0 record in their head-to-head series.

With his 25th Grand Slam title within reach and his new partnership with Murray beginning to take shape, Djokovic is excited for what lies ahead in Melbourne.