Novak Djokovic speaks on potential extension of Andy Murray as his coach beyond the Australian Open
Andy Murray had agreed to become Novak Djokovic's coach until the end of the Australian Open campaign at the bare minimum.
Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic (Image via ATP/X)
The Australian Open this year brought many storylines to the tournament. One of them centered around Novak Djokovic‘s new coach, Andy Murray. The British tennis legend agreed to a short-term coaching deal with his former rival, lasting until the end of the fortnight at Rod Laver Arena.
After Djokovic’s campaign came to an abrupt end on Friday, January 24, the Serbian reflected on Murray’s future as his coach. While he didn’t provide any definitive answers, Djokovic expressed gratitude for Murray’s contribution during the tournament.
Murray had retired from professional tennis at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The three-time Grand Slam champion played doubles with his good friend, Dan Evans, delivering thrilling matches to the French crowd before bowing out of the sport.
Murray succeeded Goran Ivanisevic as Djokovic’s coach. Ivanisevic had ended his partnership with Djokovic in March of the previous year. He then took on the role of coaching Elena Rybakina but was relieved of his duties just two months into that agreement.
Novak Djokovic was asked if he will continue working with Andy Murray as his coach:
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 24, 2025
“I don't know. We both were disappointed with what just happened, so we didn't talk about future steps. I think we both need to cool off a bit & then we'll have a chat.”
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Novak Djokovic’s struggles in Grand Slam events continue
Novak Djokovic‘s struggles at Grand Slam events were not something the tennis world expected to discuss anytime soon. However, it has now been five Grand Slam events since he last lifted a major title.
The most recent Grand Slam victory for Djokovic was at the US Open in 2023, where he defeated Daniil Medvedev in straight sets. That win tied him with Margaret Court for the most Grand Slam singles titles in history.
Before last year’s Australian Open semifinals, Djokovic had never lost at Melbourne Park after reaching the final four. However, he has now been defeated at the semifinal stage for two consecutive years. Last year, he lost in four sets to eventual champion Jannik Sinner.
In the past five Grand Slam events, Djokovic has only reached one final, which was at Wimbledon in 2024. He lost in straight sets to Carlos Alcaraz in that championship match at SW19.
Fahad Hamid
(660 Articles Published)