In a sensational move, Andy Murray will join Novak Djokovic’s team as the Serbian looks to win his 25th Grand Slam singles title. The two 37-year-olds, born just a week apart, have shared countless Grand Slam battles over the years. Murray famously defeated Djokovic in the 2012 US Open final and again at Wimbledon in 2013, ending Britain’s 77-year wait for a homegrown male champion.
Reflecting on the appointment, Djokovic said: “I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net as my coach. I’m looking forward to starting the season and competing in Australia alongside Andy, with whom I have shared many exceptional moments on Australian soil.”
The Serbian also shared the announcement on Instagram, posting a picture of the pair together and humorously adding: “He never liked retirement anyway.”
Murray, who underwent hip resurfacing surgery in January 2019 to prolong his career, retired after this year’s Paris Olympics, where he and Dan Evans fell in the men’s doubles quarterfinals. However, the father-of-four now takes on a new challenge as part of Djokovic’s coaching team.
Speaking about the role, Murray said: “I’m going to be joining Novak’s team in the off-season, helping him prepare for the Australian Open. I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him achieve his goals.”
Murray’s move into coaching coincides with his upcoming ‘Centre Stage’ theatre tour, where he will reflect on his illustrious career. Spanning four dates across London and Scotland, the shows will be hosted by BBC sports broadcaster Andrew Cotter and promise to reveal untold stories from Murray’s time on the ATP Tour.
Discussing the tour, Murray said: “After I retired this summer, I wanted to try some different things. I don’t think a tennis player has done anything like this before, so it felt like a great challenge for me. I haven’t stepped on a tennis court for a long time, so hopefully, my fans will enjoy seeing me in this new setting.”
The shows will be an intimate experience, with attendees asked to leave their phones at the door for a rare glimpse into the life of one of Britain’s most beloved athletes.
Main photo credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
