Andy Murray's family step in after decision to join Novak Djokovic's coaching described as 'act of war'
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Former tennis star Andy Murray has joined Novak Djokovic's coaching team for the 2025 Australian Open, just four months after retiring from professional tennis.
The surprising announcement came over the weekend, with the two 37-year-old former rivals set to unite in a groundbreaking partnership.
Murray, who stepped away from professional tennis following the Paris Olympics, will join the 24-time Grand Slam champion's camp during the off-season.
The unexpected collaboration initially led many to believe it was a joke, before it was confirmed as a serious arrangement that will see Murray cross oceans to guide his former competitor.
Andy Murray's decision to join Novak Djokovic has shocked the tennis world
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Tennis journalist Jon Wertheim, who co-hosts the Served podcast with Andy Roddick, initially thought the announcement was a publicity stunt.
However, Wertheim quickly received a striking message from a respected former player about the appointment.
"This is an act of war. This is Novak saying, basically, I've still got something in me and I'm not done going down to the basement and tinkering," the source told Wertheim.
According to Roddick, Murray had previously declined coaching offers from several top players on both the ATP and WTA Tours.
The opportunity to work with Djokovic, however, proved too compelling to turn down.
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Murray's family played a crucial role in his decision to accept Djokovic's offer.
"This is not the first player that's reached out to Murray. And Murray's family unit basically said, 'You are going to regret it if you don't do this'," Wertheim revealed.
The commitment involves significant travel across time zones for the Australian Open.
"I was told that people very close to Murray essentially said, 'We know you too well. We know you are going to regret it if you say no to this. Go ahead and do it and see how it goes,'" Wertheim added.
The family's encouragement proved decisive in Murray's choice to embark on this new chapter.
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Murray's transition to coaching comes as no surprise, given his previous comments about his post-playing career.
During his farewell ceremony at Wimbledon last summer, he offered a telling insight into his future plans.
When asked if he would return to watch matches from the stands, Murray responded: "I would probably be more comfortable up there in the coaching box."
The decision to coach Djokovic, rather than mentor an up-and-coming player, has raised eyebrows in the tennis world.
Andy Murray only retired from tennis earlier this year
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"It takes a certain level of humility to ask and probably to accept but I think it's a really good move on both sides," noted Wertheim.
The partnership between these former rivals marks a significant shift in their relationship, which dates back to their junior days.
Both Murray and Djokovic, who have previously competed for Grand Slam titles and the world No. 1 ranking, will now work together towards a common goal.
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Andy Murray had been warned by his family he would regret not joining Novak Djokovic's coaching team
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While the tennis world watches with interest, both men are expected to approach their new dynamic with characteristic determination.
The collaboration between these two tennis giants signals a new chapter in their storied careers, with their shared experience and knowledge potentially creating a formidable coaching partnership.
Only time will reveal the impact of this unexpected alliance in Melbourne.
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