Andy Murray has opened up about the lighthearted response he gave when Novak Djokovic unexpectedly asked him to become his coach.
The 37-year-old, who retired from professional tennis last year, has been spotted at Melbourne Park this week in a new role—helping the 24-time Grand Slam champion prepare for the Australian Open. Despite initially being hesitant, Murray eventually agreed to join Djokovic’s team.
Speaking during a charity exhibition event titled “A Night With Novak”, Murray told fans he was caught completely off guard when Djokovic called him. “I was shocked. I honestly didn’t expect it,” he said. “I told him, ‘I’ll have to ask my wife first.’” His reply drew laughter from the Rod Laver Arena crowd, though Murray explained that his wife supported the unique opportunity.
Murray also joked about his long history at the Australian Open, where he lost five finals—four of them to Djokovic. Pointing toward his new coaching partner, he quipped, “This man is single-handedly responsible for that. Now I’m here to try and sabotage his chances of winning another one.”
The night also featured Murray stepping back onto the court in a fun doubles match with Djokovic, Victoria Azarenka, and Zheng Qinwen. At one point, Murray smashed a winning volley past Djokovic, though Azarenka teased him, joking that Djokovic’s son could play better. Djokovic himself joined in, agreeing with the playful jab.
Murray revealed he first learned about Djokovic’s coaching offer while out on the golf course. At the time, he told a friend he couldn’t imagine coaching. Just half an hour later, Djokovic called, turning that offhand remark into reality.
