In a stunning turn of events, Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has parted ways with his coach Andy Murray just weeks before the French Open, sending shockwaves through the tennis world. The decision, announced on May 13, 2025, comes on the heels of a lackluster clay-court season, with Djokovic suffering early exits in Monte Carlo and Madrid. As the Serbian star prepares for Roland Garros, where he aims to claim a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, speculation is rife about his next move. Among the most compelling options is a familiar face: Viktor Troicki, Djokovic’s longtime friend, former teammate, and a proven coach who could reignite the Serbian’s pursuit of greatness.
Djokovic and Murray’s partnership, which began in November 2024, was a bold experiment that captivated the tennis community. The two former rivals, who clashed in 36 professional matches, brought a unique dynamic to the coaching box. “I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my coach,” Djokovic said when announcing the collaboration. Their tenure showed early promise, with Djokovic reaching the Australian Open semifinals, where he defeated Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling four-set quarterfinal. However, a leg injury forced him to retire against Alexander Zverev, and subsequent struggles— including a Miami Open final loss to 19-year-old Jakub Mensik and first-round defeats to Alejandro Tabilo and Matteo Arnaldi—highlighted a dip in form. “Kind of a new reality for me,” Djokovic admitted after his Madrid loss, reflecting on his uncharacteristic struggles.
The split, described as mutual, was marked by mutual respect. “Thank you, coach Andy, for all the hard work, fun & support over last six months on & off the court,” Djokovic wrote on social media, adding, “I really enjoyed deepening our friendship together.” Murray echoed the sentiment, saying, “Thanks to Novak for the unbelievable opportunity to work together and thanks to his team for all their hard work over the past six months. I wish Novak all the best for the rest of the season.” Despite the amicable parting, the timing—just before the French Open, where Djokovic turns 38 on May 22—raises questions about his preparation for the grueling clay-court major.
Enter Viktor Troicki, a name that has surfaced as a leading candidate to step into Murray’s role. Troicki, a former world number 12 and Serbia’s Davis Cup captain, shares a deep bond with Djokovic, having grown up together in Belgrade and competed as teammates. Their friendship, forged through years of shared practices and national pride, makes Troicki a natural fit. His coaching credentials are equally impressive: Troicki guided Vasek Pospisil to the 2020 Sofia Open final and has been instrumental in Serbia’s Davis Cup campaigns. “He knows my game inside out,” Djokovic once said of Troicki, a sentiment that underscores the potential for a seamless transition.
Troicki’s coaching style, which blends tactical insight with motivational support, aligns with Djokovic’s needs as he navigates the twilight of his career. Unlike Murray, whose high-profile presence drew intense scrutiny, Troicki offers a low-key, steady hand. His experience on clay, where he reached the French Open fourth round in 2011, could help Djokovic address his recent struggles on the surface. With no clay-court wins in 2025 and a wildcard entry into the Geneva Open, Djokovic is under pressure to find form quickly. Troicki’s familiarity with Djokovic’s relentless baseline game and mental fortitude could be the key to unlocking a fourth Roland Garros title.
The tennis world is abuzz with other potential coaching options, including a possible reunion with Goran Ivanisevic, who led Djokovic to 12 Grand Slam titles. However, Troicki’s unique blend of personal connection and professional expertise makes him a standout choice. “It’s rare to have such a recently retired player linking up with one of their big rivals,” noted one observer of the Djokovic-Murray partnership, a dynamic Troicki avoids as a non-rival ally. His appointment would also resonate with Serbian fans, who see Troicki as a trusted figure in Djokovic’s inner circle.
As Djokovic prepares for the French Open, the stakes are monumental. With Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner dominating the Grand Slam landscape, the Serbian legend faces a critical juncture. “I expressed my desire to continue the collaboration with him,” Djokovic said of Murray earlier this year, hinting at his openness to evolving partnerships. Troicki, with his deep understanding of Djokovic’s game and unyielding loyalty, could be the brilliant option to guide him toward history. The tennis world watches eagerly as Djokovic, the last of the ‘Big Four,’ charts his path forward with a trusted friend by his side.
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