In a recent and highly insightful interview with Sasa Ozmo for Sport Klub, Novak Djokovic opened up about his future, following his decision to withdraw from the 2024 Nitto ATP Finals in Turin. The 24-time Grand Slam champion, who has had an incredible and challenging season, acknowledged that while tennis remains his top goal, he was in need of some rest and recovery. He emphasized his commitment to the sport and expressed his intention to make a strong comeback in 2025. This announcement has generated significant buzz, as fans and the tennis world eagerly anticipate his return to action.
Djokovic reflected on the difficult decision to withdraw from the ATP Finals, explaining, “I just needed to recharge and rest a bit after a tiring year. I’ve told you a million times: I would also like to play the Davis Cup, let’s see what happens.” This statement suggests that while Djokovic remains enthusiastic about representing his country in the Davis Cup, he is not rushing into any commitments until he’s fully prepared for the challenges ahead. The Serbian star also spoke candidly about his preparations for the 2025 season, revealing that he would start the year by competing in the first week of the season, though he has yet to finalize where he will play. However, his sights are clearly set on the Australian Open, where he has enjoyed great success over the years.
One significant change in Djokovic’s approach compared to 2024 is his intention to start his season earlier. In 2024, Djokovic made his return directly at the Australian Open after a limited preparation period, but this year, he plans to get some matches under his belt before the first Grand Slam of the year. One potential tournament on the horizon is the ATP 250 event in Adelaide, where he made a successful debut in 2023, clinching the title before going on to win the Australian Open. His participation in Adelaide would be a logical step, offering him the opportunity to gain some match rhythm and confidence ahead of the Australian Open.
But the surprises didn’t end there. Djokovic’s announcement was followed by a revelation that caught many by surprise: the identity of his new coach. For weeks, there had been speculation about Djokovic’s coaching team, with some hints pointing towards a significant change. In a prophetic statement made a few weeks ago, Viktor Troicki, a former Serbian tennis player and close friend of Djokovic, had hinted that something big was brewing with a new coach. He mentioned, “I’m happy that Nole declared that he is starting 100% the preparations for the new season. We saw each other briefly and I also heard that something was being born with a new coach, a big name. I don’t know anything about it. These are the rumors I heard, but I have not had any certain news from him.” Troicki’s cryptic comments set the stage for the eventual announcement that would shock the tennis world.
The big news is that Andy Murray, the three-time Grand Slam champion and former world No. 1, will join Djokovic’s team as his new coach. The announcement of this partnership has generated widespread excitement, given the long-standing rivalry and friendship between the two players. Djokovic and Murray have shared many intense battles on the court over the years, but now they will come together to work side-by-side. The news has been warmly received by fans, with Djokovic joking on social media, “And he didn’t like being retired anyway,” referencing Murray’s decision to retire earlier this year.
Murray, who had announced his retirement from professional tennis after a remarkable career, has always been known for his tactical acumen and fierce competitiveness. Despite his retirement, he has remained closely connected to the tennis world and, more recently, has started to explore new avenues, including a theatre tour. Murray’s deep understanding of the game and his familiarity with Djokovic’s strengths and weaknesses make him an ideal candidate to help guide Djokovic through the later stages of his illustrious career.
Murray has expressed his support for Djokovic, particularly in relation to his Olympic aspirations. “I hope Novak Djokovic wins the gold medal. It means a lot to him, every time he plays for his country you can see that he cares a lot. It would be fantastic if he could win the Olympic gold,” Murray said during the 2024 Paris Olympics, a tournament that also marked Murray’s official farewell from professional tennis. The bond between the two rivals is evident, and Murray’s coaching role offers a unique dynamic that will undoubtedly bring fresh energy to Djokovic’s camp.
As the two former rivals prepare to work together, it raises the question: what will this partnership bring to Djokovic’s game? There is no doubt that it will be a fascinating collaboration, as a retired player who has battled Djokovic on numerous occasions now takes on the role of mentor. Djokovic, who has dominated their head-to-head record, likely sees the value in having someone like Murray on his team, especially given Murray’s extensive experience and deep knowledge of what it takes to succeed at the top level.
While Djokovic’s game is already highly refined, there are always areas for improvement, and Murray’s input could provide valuable insights into the mental and physical aspects of being a top-level athlete at the age of 37. Both players have shared similar challenges, including the demands of balancing family life and professional tennis, so Murray’s personal understanding of Djokovic’s current situation could help him navigate the pressures of the tour in a more balanced and effective manner.
Murray’s role will not only involve coaching but also offering advice on how to manage life as an older athlete, drawing from his own experiences. As a player who has faced significant physical challenges throughout his career, including hip surgeries and long recoveries, Murray will have plenty of wisdom to share regarding injury management and maintaining peak physical condition.
But this collaboration isn’t the only exciting development for Murray. After announcing his retirement from tennis, Murray revealed that he would be embarking on a theatre tour with renowned commentator Andrew Cotter. The “Centre Stage” show will take place in various cities, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Hammersmith, and Wimbledon, from June 18 to 29. This new venture will allow Murray to step into the spotlight in a different way, entertaining audiences with his wit and insight. It’s a surprising yet natural transition for a player who has always been comfortable in front of a crowd, whether on the court or off it.
Murray’s decision to pursue a new career path while continuing his involvement in tennis, particularly in his coaching role with Djokovic, marks a new chapter in his post-tennis life. It will be fascinating to see how both Murray and Djokovic continue to evolve, both individually and as a team. This partnership has the potential to reshape the landscape of men’s tennis in the coming years and offer a fresh perspective on what it means to be a top player at the age of 37.