Former world number one tennis player Andy Murray has announced that he will be coaching long-time rival Novak Djokovic in the lead up to the Australian Open in January 2025. Murray, who retired from tennis earlier in 2024 following a 19-year career, will be working alongside the 24-time Grand Slam champion in his first coaching role since retiring from playing. Speaking about the new partnership, Murray said he was “looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change”.
Djokovic, who shares the record for the most major singles titles by any player with Margaret Court, has won the Australian Open a record 10 times. Although he didn’t win any major titles in 2024, Djokovic did clinch an Olympic gold medal – something he described as his “greatest achievement”. The Australian Open has always been an important tournament for Djokovic, and it would be fitting for him to overtake the Australian legend in Melbourne.
The two tennis greats have had a long and storied rivalry. Djokovic currently holds a 25-11 lead over Murray in their head-to-head matches. However, Murray has claimed memorable victories over him to win the 2012 US Open and the 2013 Wimbledon Championships. Djokovic beat Murray in four finals in Melbourne, as well as in the 2016 French Open final. Murray and Djokovic have maintained a good friendship throughout their years on tour, having been born just weeks apart and grown up as junior rivals.
Djokovic made changes to his team earlier this year, parting ways with his long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic. Meanwhile, Murray replaced Djokovic as world number one at the end of the 2016 season, going on a 24-match winning streak to end the year. However, his career was hampered by a hip injury sustained in 2017, which led to his decision to retire in 2024. In his final tournament, Murray made it to the quarter-finals of the men’s doubles alongside Dan Evans before bowing out.
“I’m going to be joining Novak’s team in the off-season, helping him to prepare for the Australian Open,” Murray said. “I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him to achieve his goals.” Djokovic commented that he was pleased with the new partnership and was looking forward to starting the season with Murray by his side in Melbourne
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