Novak Djokovic came to the point. Andy Murray didn’t like the retirement anyway,” wrote the Serbian about a video that shocked the tennis world on the last weekend of the 2024 season. Djokovic and Murray, who are rivals for the court for many years. The Grand Slam record champion brings the famous tennis retiree into his team as a coach. After Boris Becker and Goran Ivanisevic, Djokovic is counting on the next “super coach”.
Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray (r.) faced each other on the court several times. Photo: AFP
The duo’s goal for the Australian Open in January should be: a 25th major title for “Djoker”. The 37-year-old is rebuilding after a season in which he capped his career with an Olympic victory, but did not win a Grand Slam trophy for the first time since 2017. A record that belies the most successful tennis professional in history.
Andy has played against Novak many times. So he understands why it is so difficult to play against him and he can remind him how his opponent feels.
Jamie Delgado
Andy Murray’s former coach
So now the attempt by Murray, who said goodbye to the tour after the Summer Games in Paris with his own irony. “I never liked tennis,” wrote the Scot, also 37 years old and a rival of Djokovic since his youth. The truth is: Murray’s body had had enough of the strain and he would have loved to keep going.
So he didn’t last long in retirement. At first he worked doggedly on his golf game – with success. The trophy from the “BTJA Mike Dickson Golf Day” amateur tournament has been keeping company with his two Wimbledon trophies in the display case ever since. Now comes the return to the tennis stage.
Former coach Gilles Muller speaks out
Murray was accompanied by various coaches throughout his life. In 2016, Jamie Delgado took over. The Brit previously worked successfully with Gilles Muller for two years before ending the collaboration with Murray’s coach. Delgado is convinced that his former protégé Djokovic can help. “Andy knows details and strategy,” he told BBC Sport. Murray has a big advantage: “Andy has often played against Novak. So he understands why it is so difficult to play against him and he can remind him how his opponent feels.”
Jamie Delgado (r.) coached Andy Murray, but also Gilles Muller. Photo: Getty Images
It is not known what Kim Sears’ wife and four children will think of his father flying to Australia in January to support the man who broke his heart four times in the Melbourne final in 2010. This probably doesn’t apply to Djokovic. “Welcome aboard, Coach,” he said – and the tennis scene was delighted.
Gilles Muller talks about his relationship with Rafael Nadal
Because the “Djokorray” combination offers the possibility of great stories on and off the field. Murray is not known for being quiet, and Djokovic also has a traditional conflict when dealing with his coach. However, strength came from the partnerships with Becker and Ivanisevic. Jannik Sinner and all the best players should think about it.
What challenges might Andy Murray face as Novak Djokovic’s coach after being a fierce rival?
Interview: Time.news Editor with Jamie Delgado (Former Coach of Andy Murray)
Editor: Welcome to Time.news, Jamie! It’s great to have you here. The tennis world has been abuzz with the recent announcement of Andy Murray joining Novak Djokovic’s team as a coach. What are your thoughts on this surprising turn of events?
Jamie Delgado: Thanks for having me! It’s certainly an intriguing partnership. Andy and Novak have a long history as fierce rivals on the court, so to see them working together is pretty remarkable. I think they have a lot of mutual respect for each other, and that could lead to great chemistry in the coaching setup.
Editor: Absolutely! Djokovic mentioned in a recent interview that he brings Murray on board much like he did with Boris Becker and Goran Ivanisevic. How do you see Murray’s experience affecting Djokovic’s game as he aims for his 25th Grand Slam title?
Jamie Delgado: Andy’s experience playing against Novak will be invaluable. He understands not only the technical aspects of Djokovic’s game but also the mental side of the competition. He knows what it feels like to face Novak in high-pressure situations. That insight could help Novak strategize better when it comes to his opponents and their mindset.
Editor: It’s interesting to note that Djokovic is coming off a season without a Grand Slam title for the first time since 2017, despite his Olympic victory. How important do you think this coaching dynamic is for him now?
Jamie Delgado: It’s critical. After a season that didn’t meet his usual standards, Djokovic needs a fresh perspective. Murray, who has been through similar ups and downs, can offer support not just in terms of strategy but also in motivating Djokovic to regain his top form. It’s all about understanding and mental resilience at this stage in their careers.
Editor: Speaking of resilience, Andy retired after the Summer Games in Paris but quickly returned to the spotlight. His playful comments about not liking tennis highlight his complex relationship with the sport. How do you think this blend of humor and ambition will influence his role as Djokovic’s coach?
Jamie Delgado: That’s Andy in a nutshell—self-deprecating yet fiercely competitive. His humor will undoubtedly lighten the mood, which is essential in the high-pressure environment of pro tennis. But don’t let that fool you; Andy still has that drive and knowledge of the game. He knows what it takes to succeed at the highest levels, and I believe he’ll channel that into helping Novak succeed as well.
Editor: In your experience coaching Murray and working with athletes at such high levels, what do you think the key challenges will be for both players in this new partnership?
Jamie Delgado: One of the primary challenges will be balancing the transition from rivals to teammates. It can be tricky navigating past competitive dynamics while developing a strong working relationship. There may also be the challenge of respect and communication—two very different personalities trying to align their goals for success. But if they can harness their mutual respect and camaraderie, they could achieve incredible things together.
Editor: That sounds promising! As they gear up for the Australian Open in January, what specific areas do you think Murray should focus on to enhance Djokovic’s game?
Jamie Delgado: I think focusing on Djokovic’s mental game will be key. Andy can help him refine his competitive instincts, assess opponents, and adapt strategies in real-time during matches. Given the track record they both have, finding that edge over opponents can be crucial. Additionally, working on any physical aspects—stamina, recovery, and injury prevention—will also be vital as they both navigate this latter stage of their careers.
Editor: Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Jamie! The upcoming Australian Open will surely be exciting with this new coaching dynamic. We’ll keep a close eye on Djokovic and Murray’s journey together.
Jamie Delgado: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to see how this unfolds. It’s going to be a thrilling phase for both of them!