Novak Djokovic’s mentor Nenad Zimonjic not fully ‘optimistic’ about the Serbian’s collaboration with Andy Murray

Novak Djokovic's mentor Nenad Zimonjic is not very optimistic about the Serbian's collaboration with Andy Murray.

Novak Djokovic’s mentor Nenad Zimonjic not fully ‘optimistic’ about the Serbian’s collaboration with Andy Murray

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, (in circle) Nenad Zimonjic and Djokovic (via BBC/Tennis365)

Novak Djokovic is hoping to begin the 2025 season at his best game level, which led him to partner with former World No. 1 Andy Murray. While that move has been lauded by several media personnel, his mentor Nenad Zimonjic is not fully optimistic.

The 2024 season has not been great for Djokovic. He failed to win any tour-level title, lost his World No. 1 position to Jannik Sinner, and finished the year outside the Top 3. The Serbian’s only triumph this year was at the Paris Olympics, where he claimed the elusive singles gold medal.

YouTube video

However, Djokovic is looking forward to returning to his best level next season. He recently announced that Murray will be joining his coaching team ahead of the 2025 Australian Open, which begins on January 12.

FS Video

The news raised plenty of eyebrows across the tennis world, with questions surrounding how the two former rivals will form a partnership. Following that surprise development, Zimonjic, one of Djokovic’s closest friends and mentor, opined that the partnership’s success depends largely on Murray.

It’s something new for everyone. That’s probably why they agreed to work until the Australian Open and see how it goes, if it’s a good fit. They could continue to work together, but it could depend on Andy’s desire to travel after playing for so many years.

Nenad Zimonjic said (via Ubitennis)

Murray retired from tennis at the Paris Olympics after struggling with injuries. The 37-year-old British legend never fully recovered from the hip injury he sustained in 2019 despite undergoing surgery. It continued to resurface at the tail-end of his career.

Nenad Zimonjic believes collaboration with Andy Murray will impact Djokovic positively

While Nenad Zimonjic is not fully optimistic about Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray’s partnership, he also believes that it will work out well. Zimonjic was Djokovic’s coach for a few months after the 24-time Major champion split with Goran Ivanisevic in March 2024.

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray
Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray (Via Imago)

Zimonjic has been a formidable ally and adviser to Djokovic. He stated that the similarities in Djokovic and Murray’s playing styles can help take the former’s game to another level.

They know each other quite well and they’ve been playing against each other or together since they were kids. They have a similar style. Tactically, Andy was one of the best guys. So he can help him with a different view and different perspectives.

Nenad Zimonjic expressed (via ubitennis)

Djokovic has won the Australian Open a record 10 times in his career. This year he exited in the semifinals after losing to Jannik Sinner in the semifinals. He will be aiming to take his Melbourne tally to 11 next year.