World #7 Novak Djokovic has not committed to working with Andy Murray again following his retirement from the Australian Open semifinals on Friday due to an injury. The ten-time Australian Open champion lost the first set of his semifinal against Alexander Zverev in a tiebreak before deciding to retire hurt due to a thigh muscle tear he incurred in the quarterfinals against Carlos Alcaraz.
Djokovic had brought in five-time Melbourne Park finalist Murray to assist him in pursuing a 25th Grand Slam title. Despite the injury, it appeared to be effective as Djokovic found a way past Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals.
“I don’t know,” said Djokovic when reporters asked if the two tennis greats might team up again. “You know, we both were disappointed with what just happened, so we didn’t talk about the future steps. We are so fresh off the court.
“I’ll definitely have a chat with Andy and thank him for being here with me. You know, give him my feedback, which is, of course, positive, and see how he feels and we make the next step.”
He said that with emotions heightened following such a dramatic conclusion to his tournament, it would be wise to let things settle before making any hasty choices.
“We are still hot-headed and disappointed, so it’s kind of hard to switch the page and start talking about what the next steps are,” said Djokovic.
“I think we both need to cool off a little bit and then we’ll have a chat.”
Djokovic also discussed his future and the potential that he might need to alter his schedule to accommodate his body as he gets older. At 37 years old, Djokovic is the oldest player ever to compete at this high a level, especially in the far more physical modern game.
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
