Andy Murray is set to make a surprising return to tennis at Melbourne Park's Rod Laver Arena, mere months after his retirement from the professional circuit.
The British tennis legend, who has reached five finals at the Australian venue, will participate in Thursday's 'A Night With Novak' charity event.
Murray's appearance comes in an intriguing new chapter of his career, having recently taken up the role of coach to his former rival Novak Djokovic.
The sold-out exhibition event, now in its third year, aims to raise funds for children's charities through the Australian Tennis Foundation.
Andy Murray retired from tennis last year - but could come back
PA
In the mixed doubles match, Murray will partner with Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion Belinda Bencic against Djokovic and Paris 2024 gold medallist Qinwen Zheng.
The evening's finale will see Murray and Djokovic join forces with wheelchair tennis star Tokito Oda and Australian Paralympic icon Dylan Alcott for a special challenge match.
The event was originally set to feature Nick Kyrgios facing Djokovic in a singles match, but the Australian has withdrawn due to an abdominal injury.
Despite no longer competing professionally, Murray will once again experience the atmosphere of a packed Rod Laver Arena, with tickets already sold out.
Murray has already been active in his coaching role, observing Djokovic's practice set victory over Carlos Alcaraz on Tuesday.
The Brit attempted some serves during practice sessions, though his retirement appears to have taken its toll as he complained of shoulder pain.
Further practice sessions followed on Wednesday, where Murray watched Djokovic defeat British No. 1 Jack Draper 6-2, despite trailing in the second set.
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Andy Murray has been coaching Novak Djokovic ahead of the Australian Open
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The pair have scheduled another practice session on Thursday before the charity event, where Djokovic will face French prospect Arthur Fils.
Murray's tactical acumen will be put to immediate use, as the Australian Open draw takes place Thursday, determining Djokovic's first-round opponent.
Speaking about his new partnership with Murray, Djokovic acknowledged the unusual dynamic of working with a former rival.
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"In a way it was strange for me to share all these kinds of insights about how I feel on the court, sharing some of the secrets of what I'm going through with somebody that has been always one of the top rivals," Djokovic said at last week's Brisbane International.
The 24-time Major champion praised Murray's approach to their collaboration, stating: "He's very meticulous, he's very dedicated, so professional."
The pair have already spent 10 days working together, with Djokovic particularly valuing Murray's unique perspective on his game and knowledge of current players.
