Andy Murray to coach Novak Djokovic at Australian Open after shock announcement

Andy Murray is set to take up a surprise role as coach for long-time rival Novak Djokovic, the duo confirmed in a blockbuster announcement on Saturday.

Murray, who ended his illustrious 19-year tennis playing career following the Olympic Games in Paris in August, is set to join Djokovic’s team as he prepares for the new season and the first Grand Slam of 2025 at the Australian Open in January.

Djokovic – who split from previous coach Goran Ivanisevic back in March – made the shock announcement in a video posted to his official social media channels that was captioned: “He never liked retirement anyway.”

The record 24-time Grand Slam winner said in a dramatic voiceover played over images of his many battles with Murray down the years: “We played each other since we were boys, 25 years of being rivals, of pushing each other beyond our limits.

We had some of the most epic battles in in our sport. They called us gamechangers, risk-takers, history-makers.

“I thought our story may be over. Turns out it has one final chapter. It’s time for one of my toughest opponents to step into my corner. Welcome aboard, coach Andy Murray.

9 Books Elon Musk Recommends For Turning Your Life AroundEver since he was a kid, Elon Musk—the CEO of Tesla and now the second-richest person in the world—has been an avid reader…Blinkist: Elon Musk’s Reading List

“I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my coach.

“Looking forward to the start of the season and competing in Australia alongside Andy with whom I have shared many exceptional moments on the Australian soil.”

Murray also confirmed then news, saying: “I’m going to be joining Novak’s team in the off-season, helping him to prepare for the Australian Open.

“I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him to achieve his goals.”