“We played each other since we were boys. Twenty-five years of being rivals, of pushing each other beyond our limits,” is what Novak Djokovic said after announcing his alliance with on-court rival and off-court mate Andy Murray. After a long journey of playing 36 matches against each other, the duo decided to walk into a player-coach setup. Now American pro, Chris Eubanks recently stepped forward to drop his honest views on this alliance. Here’s a deeper dive into what the active members of the playing clan think about tennis’ buzzing topic.

American ATP star Christopher Eubanks expressed his excitement about Novak Djokovic’s decision to appoint Andy Murray as his coach for the 2025 season. Speaking on the TC Live Podcast, Eubanks shared his thoughts on what Murray can bring to Djokovic’s team at this stage in his career. “I love to hire. I think at this stage in his career, Novak doesn’t need anyone to try to make tinkering or adjustments on the forehand or the backhand,” Eubanks said. “I think it’s so cool to have someone who’s been in a similar position, although obviously, Andy did not amass the amount of titles and Grand Slams that Novak has, but he’s been in the similar situation.”

Eubanks highlighted Murray’s unique perspective on the game, noting how valuable it could be for Djokovic as he continues to compete against a younger generation of players. “I’ve had the chance to sit and just listen to him talk about tennis, talk about X’s and O’s, and it’s truly a pleasure to just hear how his mind works about the game. I’m excited to see what he brings to the table,” Eubanks said. He added that Murray’s experience as a player, competitor, and friend will likely make him an effective mentor. “I think Murray is a voice that Novak will obviously respect. He’s a player that has competed against him. He’s a player that has been good friends with him. They play doubles together, so they have a great long-standing relationship.”

The two tennis greats, born just a week apart in May 1987, have a rich history both on and off the court. They have played each other 36 times on the professional tour, with Djokovic winning 25 of those matches. However, one of Murray’s most iconic victories came in the 2013 Wimbledon final, where he defeated Djokovic to become the first British men’s singles champion since Fred Perry in 1936.

Now, Murray will help Djokovic prepare for the Australian Open in January as he aims for a record 25th Grand Slam title. “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 to achieve his goals,” Murray said in a statement. The collaboration marks an intriguing chapter for both players, blending their vast experience and knowledge to take on new challenges together. And that’s why the revered figures of tennis are giving them a thumbs-up.

Rick Macci backs Novak Djokovic-Andy Murray partnership 

Renowned tennis coach Rick Macci has expressed his confidence in the success of Novak Djokovic’s decision to add Andy Murray to his coaching staff. Macci, who previously coached Serena Williams, believes that even the smallest improvements brought by Murray could have a significant impact on Djokovic’s performance. Sharing his thoughts on X, Macci wrote, “Was asked how much of a difference Andy Murray will make with the Joker. If he helps even 5% in any area that is the difference in winning and losing a Grand Slam, and that is the only item on the Serbian Sniper’s menu.”

Macci explained how Murray’s expertise could benefit Djokovic in critical areas of his game. As a former world number one and a three-time Grand Slam champion, Murray brings invaluable experience and knowledge of top-level tennis. His insights could be particularly helpful in refining Djokovic’s defensive skills and preparing him to counter aggressive baseline players like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. Macci suggested that Murray’s ability to analyze the game and adapt strategies could help Djokovic maintain his dominance on the court.

The Djokovic-Murray partnership represents an exciting opportunity to see the champion push the limits of his game even further. However, it still remains to be seen if these predictions will actually come true.