In a recent press conference, Daniil Medvedev shared his thoughts on the intriguing partnership between Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic. Medvedev, the Russian tennis star and three-time Australian Open runner-up, likened the collaboration to “Messi coaching Ronaldo,” highlighting the unique and potentially game-changing nature of this coaching relationship.
Medvedev, currently ranked No. 5 in the world, expressed that assessing Andy Murray’s impact on Djokovic is challenging due to the Serbian’s already formidable presence on the court. He noted, “The impact Andy will have on Novak is difficult to assess. What’s difficult when you coach Novak is that he’s so strong, that if he starts winning, people will say: ‘Is it because of Andy or is it because it’s Novak?'”
Despite the complexities, Medvedev praised the partnership, emphasizing its benefits in terms of energy, media presence, and the overall growth of tennis. He added, “It’s great. Now, imagine Messi becoming Cristiano Ronaldo’s coach. That would be strange.”
When asked about his own future, Medvedev admitted uncertainty about whether he would pursue a coaching career after his playing days are over. He acknowledged the stress and unique challenges of being a coach, saying, “Everyone tells me it’s pretty stressful being in the box. In a way, you can’t control what your player does. It’s a different and special feeling.”
As Medvedev gears up for the Australian Open, he aims to be a “disruptor” against rising stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. Medvedev, who has reached three of the last four finals at Melbourne Park, is determined to finally clinch the title this year.
The Russian star’s comments on the Djokovic-Murray partnership have sparked curiosity and excitement among tennis fans worldwide. Whether this coaching duo will lead to more Grand Slam victories for Djokovic remains to be seen, but Medvedev’s analogy to Messi and Ronaldo certainly adds an interesting layer to the narrative.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Ranked world no.7, Novak played his last match on the 3rd of January when he surrendered to world no.171 Reilly Opelka 7-6(6) 6-3 in the quarter in Brisbane (draw).
This season Novak achieved a compiled 2-1 win-loss record.
Daniil Medvedev in 2025
Now the world no.5, the Russian played his last match on the 14th of November 2024 when he capitulated to world no.1 Jannik Sinner 6-3 6-4 in the round robin in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).
This year the Russian has a compiled 46-21 match record.
Medvedev has scheduled to play next in Rotterdam (ABN AMRO Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 1st of January.
Novak Djokovic and Daniil Medvedev clashed against each other 15 times. Their record is 10-5 for Djokovic.
