Breaking: Murray reflects on six-month Djokovic coaching stint and its lessons
Andy Murray says his six-month spell coaching Novak Djokovic offered a rare blend of challenge and insight at the pinnacle of men’s tennis.
The former world No. 1 joined Djokovic’s team last November, pairing the two rivals on the same bench for a brief but high-profile coaching chapter that ended after half a year.
In his first coaching role, the 38-year-old Murray accompanied Djokovic at the 2025 Australian Open and three other tournaments, testing the dynamics of guiding one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Speaking on The Tennis Podcast, murray described the arrangement as daunting, noting that working with Djokovic required a demanding mindset: “You’re working with not only one of the best tennis players but one of the best athletes of all time, so my expectation was that it would be extremely challenging.”
He also highlighted Djokovic’s intensity as a competitor, saying the collaboration demanded a rigorous approach to preparation and performance.
“I look back on it and I’m glad that I did it. It was an amazing experience that I’ve had,” Murray added.
Djokovic’s Australian Open run included overcoming Carlos Alcaraz to reach the semi-finals, but he retired injured in that semi against Alexander Zverev.
After returning to action, Djokovic then endured early exits in Qatar and Indian Wells, before losing the Miami Open final to Czech youngster Jakub Mensik, a run Murray described as challenging for both players and staff.
“It was unfortunate what happened in Australia with the injury,” Murray said, “but I watched him play ridiculous tennis in that tournament. After the injury, it was a arduous few months for him, but also I think for the team and all of us. I was disappointed. Probably didn’t get the results I would have liked for him. but I learned a lot about what coaching is.”
Evergreen takeaways for coaches and athletes
What stands out is how coaching atop the sport tests both coach and champion. Murray gained a close-up view of Djokovic’s meticulous preparation and mental discipline, while Djokovic navigated the pressures of teaming with a renowned predecessor and former rival.
Beyond personalities, the episode underscores enduring truths about elite coaching: it demands relentless focus, crisp dialogue, and a clear alignment of goals with a superstar’s exacting standards. Even a brief collaboration can broaden a practitioner’s understanding of leadership, strategy, and performance in high-stakes competition.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Coach | Andy murray with Novak Djokovic (brief stint) |
| Start | November (before the 2025 season) |
| Duration | About six months |
| Events Coached | Australian Open 2025 and three additional events |
| Notable Djokovic results during stint | Semi-final at Australian open; injuries and exits in Qatar & Indian wells; Miami Open final loss to Jakub mensik |
| End of collaboration | Parted ways after six months |
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