Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 13: Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray have officially ended their brief coaching partnership, bringing to a close a six-month collaboration marked by camaraderie, mutual admiration, and glimpses of promise.
The announcement was made jointly, with both tennis legends exchanging heartfelt messages. Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam winner, said:
“Thank you, coach Andy, for all the hard work, fun, and support over the last six months on and off the court — really enjoyed deepening our friendship together.”
Murray, 37, who took up the coaching role in November — his first foray into coaching — responded warmly:
“Thanks to Novak for the unbelievable opportunity to work together, and thanks to his team for all their hard work over the past six months. I wish Novak all the best for the rest of the season.”
Though initially intended as an indefinite arrangement focused on the U.S. hard-court swing and select clay events, the partnership spanned just four tournaments. The highlight was a strong run at the Australian Open, where Djokovic reached the semifinals before injury forced his retirement.
Djokovic later praised Murray’s coaching instincts, saying:
“I’m pleasantly surprised by his dedication and professionalism. His tennis IQ is extremely high, and he knows when to speak and when to observe.”
Murray, too, found the experience enriching, though at times overwhelming. Speaking after Melbourne, he admitted, “I felt a bit embarrassed by all the attention I was getting. Novak’s core team has been doing an incredible job for years — I was just there to support.”
While the Australian Open provided early optimism, Djokovic’s 2024 season has since been inconsistent. He has exited early in four of his last five tournaments, including a shocking Monte Carlo loss and his recent withdrawal from the Italian Open. His best showing came in Miami, where he reached the final but lost to 19-year-old Czech prodigy Jakub Mensik in back-to-back tie-breaks.
Murray was a constant presence in the stands during that Miami run — focused but reserved — yet by then, it appeared the partnership was always meant to be short-lived rather than transformational.
Looking ahead, Djokovic will attempt to regain form on clay, starting with next week's ATP 250 event in Geneva, where he’s accepted a wildcard. Still without a clay-court win this season, questions linger about his fitness and readiness for the upcoming French Open.
Despite parting ways professionally, both players noted that the experience brought a new depth to their relationship, once defined by rivalry.
As Djokovic reflected:
“At first, it felt strange to share personal and emotional insights with someone who had been a rival. But over time, it became natural — and something I truly valued.”