After retiring from professional tennis in 2024, Andy Murray was surprised when Novak Djokovic invited him to join his coaching team. Although Murray hadn’t planned to return to the tour, he accepted the offer, curious about collaborating with one of tennis’s greatest players. Their partnership lasted six months, during which Djokovic reached the Australian Open semi-finals and the Miami Open final.
Struggles with technical coaching
Murray acknowledged that one of his biggest challenges during the stint was providing technical feedback. He noted that many former players, himself included, aren’t deeply grounded in technical instruction. Djokovic often sought detailed advice on technique, and Murray didn’t feel entirely comfortable offering it. He recognized that this aspect of coaching requires specific expertise that is typically developed by those who focus on teaching from a younger level.
Lessons learned and future aspirations
Looking back, Murray saw the experience as a learning opportunity. He mentioned wanting to improve his ability to deliver technical coaching and hoped to learn from specialists in that area, such as Louis Cayer, who had worked closely with him during his playing days. If he were to coach again, strengthening that skill would be a key focus.
This is what he said: “I would say that most ex players are sort of weak at the technical side of the game. At times, Novak was looking for quite a lot of technical feedback, and it was something that I didn’t really feel comfortable with. So that was something that I definitely, if I was going to coach again in the future, I would want to work on and learn from someone who’s very good at that.”
Coaching isn’t just about tactics
Murray also reflected on the broader demands of coaching at the highest level. It involves not only strategic planning but also managing schedules, staff interactions, and the emotional well-being of the player. He found the role more complex than expected and emphasized the importance of communication and adaptability.
Looking ahead to future coaching roles
While open to coaching again, Murray said he’d consider working with younger players, where he could have a lasting impact. For now, he’s taking time to reflect on what the role taught him and thinking about how to use that knowledge in future opportunities.
Novak Djokovic in 2025
Currently the world no.6, the Serbian played his last match on the 11th of July when he lost to world no.1 Jannik Sinner 6-3 6-3 6-4 in the semifinal in Wimbledon (draw).
This season Djokovic achieved an overall 26-9 record. The Serbian clinched 1 title in Geneva. Novak reached the final in Miami.