In a surprising twist in the tennis world, former world number one John McEnroe has shared his thoughts on Andy Murray’s recent decision to coach Novak Djokovic. McEnroe, known for his sharp wit and candid opinions, joked that Murray agreed to coach Djokovic to learn everything he can about his former rival and then come out of retirement to beat him.
The partnership between Murray and Djokovic was announced in November 2024, just months after Murray’s retirement from professional tennis. The two-time Wimbledon champion will be working with Djokovic as he aims for success at the Australian Open.
During a broadcast for Eurosport, McEnroe shared his theory with fellow commentator Tim Henman. “The coaching situation with Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic – it’s fun but it’s got to be the craziest thing I’ve ever heard,” McEnroe began. He continued, “My theory is Tim – tell me if I’m wrong – that Murray’s going to coach Djokovic for the next couple of months and then he’s going to find out everything he needs to know about how to beat Djokovic. And then he’s coming back. What do you think about that theory?”
Henman, laughing at McEnroe’s suggestion, replied, “Where do I start?” The idea of Murray using his coaching stint to gain insights into Djokovic’s game and then making a comeback to challenge him on the court certainly adds an intriguing layer to their partnership.
While McEnroe’s theory is lighthearted, it highlights the unique and unexpected nature of Murray joining Djokovic’s coaching team. The age gap between the two players, with just a one-week difference, and Murray’s recent retirement make this collaboration even more fascinating.
As Djokovic prepares for his opening match at the Australian Open, the tennis world will be watching closely to see how this new dynamic plays out. Whether Murray will indeed come out of retirement remains to be seen, but McEnroe’s theory has certainly added some excitement to the tournament.
“The craziest thing I’ve ever heard!” 🤪
John McEnroe has an 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 theory about why Andy Murray has joined Novak Djokovic’s coaching team 😂#AusOpen | @johnmcenroe pic.twitter.com/5vzfk2rzab
— Eurosport (@eurosport) January 12, 2025
Djokovic at the Australian Open, ranking, and results in 2025
Now the world no.7, Djokovic has an overall 3-1 win-loss record in 2025. The Serbian is currently having a run at the Australian Open where he beat the world no.107 Nishesh Basavareddy 4-6 6-3 6-4 6-2.
Novak Djokovic will come up against the world no.125 Jaime Faria in the 2nd round. In the past, they have never played each other till now in top competitions.
Djokovic won 99 titles in his career: 52 on hard courts, 20 on clay courts, 19 on indoor courts and 8 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
