Andy Murray’s Bold Take on Djokovic: ‘It’s Only Novak, None of the Others Matter’

Murray Joins Forces with Djokovic: A Strategic Move for the 2025 Season

In a fascinating turn of events, Andy Murray has begun working with his long-time rival, Novak Djokovic, coaching the Serbian tennis legend during the off-season and through the 2025 Australian Open. This partnership marks a full-circle moment for both players, as Murray, who has faced Djokovic 36 times in their careers, will now be supporting the 37-year-old in his quest for a record 11th Australian Open title.

The bond between Murray and Djokovic has always been complex. Over the years, the two have fought it out on the world’s biggest stages, including seven major finals, with Djokovic leading their head-to-head 25-11. Despite their intense rivalry, Murray’s recent involvement in Djokovic’s training signals a mutual respect and understanding that could benefit the Serbian’s game, especially with the looming challenge posed by younger stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

Brad Gilbert, a prominent coach and analyst, recalls an important moment from 2006, when he first began coaching Murray. Gilbert asked the then-up-and-coming Scot which opponents troubled him the most. Murray’s answer was blunt but telling: “None of those guys matter, it’s only Novak.” This response reflects the fierce rivalry and high regard Murray had for Djokovic, which remains significant to this day.

With Djokovic now looking to maintain his dominance as one of the sport’s greats, Murray’s experience and insight will be invaluable. According to Gilbert, Djokovic may need an extra push to stay motivated in the face of new challenges from younger players. Sinner and Alcaraz have rapidly risen in the rankings and raised the stakes for everyone at the top. Djokovic, who has already achieved so much in his career, is now in search of renewed motivation—and Murray could be the ideal person to provide it.

Murray’s transition from player to coach is noteworthy. Having retired from competitive tennis after the Paris Olympics earlier this year, the former World No. 1 now brings his extensive experience to Djokovic’s camp. This collaboration marks a unique situation: Murray is the third former No. 1 to join Djokovic’s team, following the paths of Andre Agassi and Boris Becker. Their partnership could prove pivotal for Djokovic as he looks to tackle the upcoming season, where new strategies will be crucial.

Gilbert, a former No. 4 player and coach, has seen firsthand the challenges and rewards of the coaching transition. Reflecting on his own coaching career with Andre Agassi, Gilbert emphasizes the importance of adjusting one’s approach based on the player’s individual needs. “You can’t think about what you would do, but what the player needs to do,” he explains. This mindset is something Murray is likely to embrace as he helps Djokovic refine his game.

The early season will be particularly thrilling, with Djokovic beginning his 2025 campaign in Brisbane. Gilbert is eager to see how the new dynamic between Murray and Djokovic plays out. He hopes to observe if any changes in Djokovic’s game are immediately noticeable during practice sessions and his early matches in Melbourne.

With Murray in Djokovic’s corner, the 2025 season is sure to be filled with excitement. The combination of two of the greatest minds in tennis could propel Djokovic to new heights, adding another layer of intrigue to his already legendary career.