By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Novak Djokovic announced that he has hired longtime rival Andy Murray to be his new coach ahead of the 2025 season.
The two shared the news in a statement and video on social media Saturday, explaining Murray, who retired from his competitive career after the Olympics in July, would work with Djokovic during the offseason and at least through the Australian Open.
“I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net as my coach,” Djokovic said. “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 added he was “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.”
Djokovic and Murray, both 37, were born one week apart in May 1987 and first played against each other as promising 11-year-olds. Since that first meeting, which Murray won, the pair would go on to have dozens of memorable matches at the junior level and on the ATP Tour.
Djokovic ultimately held a 25-11 career record over Murray, including four victories in Australian Open finals.
Murray defeated Djokovic for two of his three career major titles at the 2012 US Open and Wimbledon in 2013.
Having skipped the year-end ATP Finals, in which he was the defending champion, Djokovic ended the season at No. 7.