French tennis star believes Andy Murray can be the ‘trigger’ for Novak Djokovic’s Grand Slam success in 2025
Andy Murray will take charge of duties as Novak Djokovic's coach during the off-season leading to the Australian Open.
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Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray (Image via X)
French tennis player Nicolas Mahut has stated that Novak Djokovic could benefit greatly from appointing Andy Murray as his head coach. The 24-time Grand Slam champion shocked the tennis world by announcing his long-time rival as his new coach.
Mahut, famously known for playing the longest match in Grand Slam history against John Isner at Wimbledon in 2010, believes Murray could be the “trigger” Djokovic needs. The Frenchman feels that the former British No. 1 will bring fresh ideas to Djokovic’s team.
I was quite pessimistic for him to be honest, I thought he was heading a bit towards the end, I didn’t see him winning a Grand Slam in 2025, and I really saw him ending his career. That was the feeling I had when I saw him evolve. Maybe he must have felt it too on his side. Sometimes, when you have trouble finding personal resources inside, you look for them a little bit outside, and the fact of renewing the staff can sometimes be a trigger.
Nicolas Mahut said on Eurosport
Murray’s appointment came as a surprise, especially since it was leaked to the public without prior rumors. The three-time Grand Slam champion retired from professional tennis at the Paris Olympics in August, and few expected him to begin his coaching career so soon.
There, very clearly, taking Andy, who was his rival for years, who has known him since he was little, it will give him a little boost, he will want to do well. Now, I really have the feeling that we can see a super Novak.
Nicolas Mahut added
Murray’s first coaching role will be a short-term partnership. It is set to conclude after Djokovic’s campaign at next year’s Australian Open.
Novak Djokovic targets history at the Australian Open
Novak Djokovic ended the 2024 season without winning a Grand Slam title for the first time since 2017. It was also the first time since 2005 that he didn’t win multiple titles in a single season. He remains tied with Margaret Court for the most Grand Slam titles in history, with 24.
Djokovic’s best chance to win his 25th Grand Slam could come at the Australian Open. It is his most successful tournament, where he has won 10 titles. This year, he lost in the semifinals to Jannik Sinner, marking his first defeat in Melbourne since 2018. He also missed the 2022 edition due to his vaccination status.
In October, Djokovic admitted that the retirements of Andy Murray, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal have affected him emotionally. These rivals played a significant role in shaping his career and the sport.
Despite this, Djokovic has no plans to retire anytime soon. The Serbian star remains focused on continuing his journey and adding to his legacy.
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