The recent announcement of Novak Djokovic partnering with Andy Murray as his coach has caught the attention of tennis fans and professionals alike. This unexpected collaboration comes after Djokovic’s long-term partnership with Goran Ivanišević ended earlier in the year. Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, retired just months ago after his final appearance at the Paris Olympics and is now taking on the coaching role for Djokovic, at least temporarily, for the Australian Open.
Several top players have shared their thoughts on the surprising development:
- Gael Monfils (France) expressed his surprise but called it great for tennis, emphasizing that Murray’s love for the sport made him a natural choice to give something back through coaching. Monfils praised Djokovic for giving Murray this opportunity.
- Jan-Lennard Struff (Germany) was equally impressed, saying it was a “nice” partnership. He mentioned how seeing Murray and Djokovic working together was a heartwarming moment, especially as Murray is an idol to many. Struff also reflected on his own admiration for Pete Sampras as a potential coach, indicating the respect Murray commands within the tennis world.
- Alex de Minaur (Australia) was shocked by the announcement, calling it “crazy” to see a former rival like Murray coaching Djokovic. De Minaur recalled a surreal moment when Murray, coached by Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic during the Laver Cup, faced him on the court. He expressed curiosity about how this dynamic would unfold, especially given the mutual knowledge and strategic insights both players share.
- Holger Rune (Denmark) found the decision unexpected but intriguing. He acknowledged both Djokovic and Murray’s high tennis IQs and speculated that their combined knowledge could benefit Djokovic, especially with Murray’s past experience of beating him in crucial matches. Rune is looking forward to seeing how this new arrangement plays out.
- Thanasi Kokkinakis (Australia) also weighed in, noting that although Djokovic is a seasoned champion, Murray, who has competed against him for years, could bring valuable insights. Kokkinakis believes that Murray will excel in the coaching role and help Djokovic continue to perform at a high level.
This partnership adds an exciting twist to the tennis world, especially with Djokovic aiming for a record-extending 11th Australian Open title.