Murray to Coach Djokovic for 2024 Australian Open
Andy Murray is set to coach Novak Djokovic for the 2024 Australian Open, marking a significant turn in their longstanding rivalry. The two, born just a week apart in May 1987, have faced off 36 times, with Djokovic leading their head-to-head 25-11. Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, retired after the Paris 2024 Olympics, but will now assist Djokovic in preparing for the year's first major.
Djokovic, who has won 24 Grand Slam singles titles, parted ways with coach Goran Ivanišević earlier in 2024 and has turned to Murray for guidance as he aims to capture a 25th title. This decision follows a season where Djokovic failed to secure any Grand Slam victories for the first time since 2017. Djokovic shared his excitement on social media, acknowledging Murray’s role in pushing him to new heights over the years. "We had some of the most epic battles in our sport," Djokovic posted, noting how their rivalry helped shape their careers.
Murray, too, expressed his enthusiasm about stepping into a coaching role. "I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change," he said. The two men have had memorable encounters, with Djokovic defeating Murray four times in the Australian Open finals. However, Murray also has some important victories over Djokovic, including his 2013 Wimbledon win, where he became the first British man to claim the title since Fred Perry in 1936.
As the only remaining member of tennis' "Big Four" following the retirements of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, Djokovic is focused on reclaiming his top form. Murray’s coaching role represents a new chapter in their careers, one that brings them together on the same team instead of opposite sides of the net. This unexpected collaboration has fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipating the 2024 Australian Open.