Murray teams up with Djokovic for an exciting Australian Open 2025.©(@CGTNSportsScene)
Andy Murray has revealed the reasons behind his unexpected decision to coach Novak Djokovic at the approaching Australian Open, describing it as a “unique opportunity” he could not decline. The 37-year-old Briton, who retired from professional tennis in August, shared that the idea was first proposed during a phone conversation with Djokovic while Murray was driving home from a round of golf. Initially hesitant about moving into coaching, Murray discussed the proposal with his family before agreeing to join Djokovic on a trial basis for the tournament in Melbourne.
Djokovic, aiming for a record-extending 11th Australian Open title and a 25th Grand Slam victory, approached Murray with the idea late last year. Reflecting on the moment, Murray said, “[Novak] asked if I would be interested in helping, which I wasn’t expecting. I told him, ‘ Look, I need to think about it and talk to my family.’ After a few days, it was a unique opportunity and experience. I thought it would be a good idea to try it.”
The partnership, which has already generated significant buzz, reunites two players who first crossed paths as juniors and later became fierce rivals on the professional circuit. Since their initial collaboration in Spain last month, Murray has observed Djokovic closely, offering feedback during practice sessions against players such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jack Draper. Murray has also worked alongside Boris Bosnjakovic, who joined Djokovic’s team in 2023.
While the dynamic between the pair will be tested under the pressures of a Grand Slam, Murray remains pragmatic about his role. Acknowledging Djokovic’s intensity, Murray said, “I know it’s not easy out there—it’s stressful, and at times he’s going to want to vent towards his team and box. Providing that he’s giving his best effort and trying as hard as he can, I’m fine with him expressing himself how he wants.”
Murray’s decision to transition from player to coach surprised him. Reflecting on the sequence of events, he said, “I was playing golf, and we’d been exchanging messages. Novak had messaged me, just wanting to chat. Then, on the 17th hole, the guy I was playing with asked if I had any plans to coach, and I said, ‘Honestly, I can’t think of anything worse to do right now.’ Thirty minutes later, I conversed with Novak in the car.”
While Andy Murray has agreed to work with Djokovic on a trial basis, he has not ruled out the possibility of a longer-term partnership. Both are focused on achieving success at the Australian Open, with Murray bringing his unique perspective and experience to Djokovic’s quest for tennis history.
