Mats Wilander showcases the effectiveness of the collaboration between Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open
Andy Murray was announced as the new coach of Novak Djokovic just four months after the British player's retirement.
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Mats Wilander Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic (via X)
Famous tennis commentator and former World No.1 Mats Wilander has shared an interesting insight into Andy Murray’s approach to coaching Novak Djokovic. The unique partnership between these two tennis legends has sparked conversations ahead of the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.
Wilander, a multiple Grand Slam winner, believes that Murray will provide honest advice to Djokovic when things aren’t working, something not commonly seen with the Serb’s previous coaches.
Andy will be able to say to Novak: ‘Why did you play that stupid shot at that important moment? Why hit that forehand that you only have a 40% chance of hitting?’ without the Serb taking offense. Andy has a sensitivity to detail that no one else has. He will have Novak’s ears because Novak respects his career. He will respect his words 100%.
Mats Wilander said in an interview with L’Equipe
Djokovic has worked with many influential coaches in the past, including Marian Vajda and Goran Ivanisevic. However, he has been without a coach since parting ways with Ivanisevic in March 2024.
Ivanisevic subsequently joined Elena Rybakina as her new coach. Now, Djokovic has finalized his coaching setup and hopes to reclaim his place in the Grand Slam winner’s circle.
Novak Djokovic looks forward to making more history at the Australian Open
Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray faced each other 36 times during their tennis careers, often in finals and grand slam events. Their rivalry has taken a surprising turn this year at the Australian Open. Djokovic, chasing his 25th major title, has added Murray, now retired, to his coaching team.
Tennis fans were surprised to see them together in Melbourne. Djokovic was practicing on the court while Murray watched closely. Djokovic is tied with Margaret Court for the most grand slam singles titles. Although he won Olympic gold last year, he hasn’t won a major title for the first time since 2017, losing to Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final.
Djokovic, nearing his 38th birthday, could become the oldest grand slam singles champion in the Open era if he wins in Melbourne. His impressive physical flexibility continues to amaze fans despite his age. He remains a strong contender for the title.
To stay fit and extend his career, Djokovic now plays fewer tournaments. This strategy has affected his ranking, and he is seeded seventh at the Australian Open. With a tough draw ahead, he faces a challenging path to another grand slam victory.
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Fahad Hamid
(624 Articles Published)