Andy Murray Joins Novak Djokovic’s Coaching Team for Australian Open

In a surprising development, recently retired tennis star Andy Murray will join forces with Novak Djokovic, serving as his coach for the forthcoming Australian Open in January. The announcement was released in a joint statement by the representatives of both players on Saturday.

Novak Djokovic, whose season for 2024 is set to commence, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership. «I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my coach,» said Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion renowned for his record-breaking number of weeks spent at No. 1 in tennis history. «Looking forward to start of the season and competing in Australia alongside Andy, with whom I have shared many exceptional moments on the Australian soil.»

Murray, a distinguished player in his own right, has secured three major trophies, two Olympic singles gold medals, and concluded the 2016 season at the top of the ATP rankings. He officially retired as a player following the Paris Summer Games in August 2023.

«I’m going to be joining Novak’s team in the offseason, helping him to prepare for the Australian Open,» Murray stated. «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.»

Both athletes, now 37 years old, have been familiar faces in the tennis circuit, born just a week apart in May 1987. Their rivalry dates back to their junior playing days, leading to a professional tally of 36 matches. Djokovic currently leads with 25 victories against Murray’s 11, including an 11-8 edge in finals and 8-2 in Grand Slam tournaments, with four of those wins taking place in the Australian Open finals, in 2011, 2013, 2015, and 2016.

The Australian Open, a significant event in the tennis calendar, is scheduled to begin on January 12, setting the stage for this unique collaboration between the two tennis greats.