Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray‘s partnership is no longer a one-time experiment. Once fierce rivals, who played against each other 36 times on the court are now together on the same side of the net. Their collaboration initially seemed like a bold experiment, one that Craig Shapiro dismissed as an “unserious hire.” Murray also confessed feeling “ a little embarrassed” by the spotlight, believing he overshadowed Djokovic’s influence. However, the Serb has a different opinion. Despite his sudden withdrawal from the AO semifinals, his faith in Andy Murray remains intact.

Murray retired from the tour at the 2024 Paris Olympics and joined the Serb’s coaching team in November. “It was a shock decision, it caught him off guard as well because he wasn’t expecting it, so we connected really fast and he accepted after a few days,” Novak said. His partnership with Murray was initially for the Australian Open. There were no plans beyond Melbourne. And in his interviews back then too, he was non-committal when asked about the future or continuing with his new coach.

Djokovic’s review of Murray’s mentorship was “positive.” After he walked over from his match against Zverev, Djokovic wanted to get over his disappointment and then have a chat with the Scottish ex-player. “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. I think we both need to cool off a little bit and then we’ll have a chat,” he said. Crushed but not destroyed, Djokovic crucially didn’t lose hope on Murray’s guidance. Now, luckily for the fraternity, this epic partnership will last a few more months.

According to journalist Stuart Fraser of The Times, Andy Murray will remain Djokovic’s coach through the Roland Garros and Wimbledon. He might also receive an extension into the summer. “All being well with present discussions, Murray will remain in the corner of Novak Djokovic as the season proceeds towards the French Open and Wimbledon this summer,” stated the report. However, Murray will not be with the Serb in his every step.  Like his absence from the Brisbane International, the Scottish ex-player is expected to skip Djokovic’s Qatar Open participation this month. Instead, he will reunite with the Serb in March for the upcoming Indian Wells.

Murray’s inclusion in Djokovic’s coaching team, which showcases the equation between two biggest rivals of one time, initially caught the fraternity off-guard. However, Djokovic explained last November that, after separating from a successful collaboration with Goran Ivanisevic, he wanted a former ATP No. 1 and a Grand Slam champion on his team who would understand what it takes to win a major title.

Murray, on the flip side, recalled how he received the coaching proposal during his golf session. Surprised by the request, he called the Serb later and extended his helping hand. “And then 30 minutes later, I was in the car and I called Novak, and then we had a conversation, and he asked if I would be interested in helping, which I obviously wasn’t expecting,” he said. While their trial yet hasn’t been as successful as they had initially hoped, Murray had only positive opinions about his partnership.

Andy Murray praised Novak Djokovic’s team- “They’ve been really helpful to me”

Murray may not comment on the continuation of their partnership last month, but he still praised Djokovic’s team. “I’m fully aware that the team that is with him has done an incredible job over many, many years to allow him to still be competing at this level at the age that he’s at. They’ve been really helpful to me … it’s been great to be a part of,” said the Scot. His words highlighted the discipline and the helpfulness of Djokovic’s team which ensured Andy Murray’s comfort throughout his partnership with the Serb.

He added, “I feel like they’ve been a great team. At times, it feels a little bit embarrassing that because of my relationship with Novak, how much people talk about that or when there’s a good result or a good performance, it’s because I’ve helped him.” His words carried a deep admiration for the Serb, especially in his confession, where he criticized the media’s presentation of his mentorship as the reason behind the Serb’s potential when Djokovic’s performances speak for his brilliance.

Murray also reflected on his new role and how this shift taught him new things. “Obviously there’s a lot of things that as a player, you know things are different when you’re coaching, there’s a lot more that you need to help with in terms of communication around the team.”

Andy Murray plays a tactical role in Novak Djokovic’s team. He uses his knowledge of the ATP tour to guide the Serb against skilled players at the highest level. With this collaboration extended until at least Wimbledon, let’s see if their partnership has as much impact as did their fierce rivalry. Do you think Murray can fulfill Novak Djokovic’s dream of owning 25 Grand Slams?