Novak Djokovic hints at Andy Murray future role after Carlos Alcaraz victory at Australian Open
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Novak Djokovic celebrated wildly with new coach Andy Murray and hinted he could stay for the long haul after battling back from a set down to defeat Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling Australian Open quarter-final.
The 37-year-old Serbian clinched a 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4 victory on Rod Laver Arena to reach his 50th Grand Slam semi-final.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion immediately sought out Murray following match point, highlighting their blossoming partnership in their first major tournament together.
Speaking to the media after his victory, Djokovic hinted that Murray's coaching role might be extended to past the Australian Open.
Novak Djokovic went straight to Andy Murray after his victory over Carlos Alcaraz
Reuters
"This was a huge win for all of us, including Andy and myself, for the relationship," Djokovic said. "That's why I went to him, because I just felt very grateful that he's there."
"I feel more and more connected with Andy every day," he added. "He's been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be."
Djokovic's triumph was overshadowed by concerns over a left-leg injury that required treatment during the opening set.
The Serbian admitted in his on-court interview: "If I had lost the second set, I don't know if I would have continued playing."
He required painkillers to continue the match, with treatment needed in both the first and fourth sets.
"I'm concerned, to be honest, physically," Djokovic said. "But if I manage somehow to be physically good enough, I think mentally, emotionally I'm as motivated as I can be."
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The injury is reportedly similar to the three-centimetre tear in his left hamstring that he battled through to win the title in 2023.
An extra day's rest before his landmark 50th Grand Slam semi-final against world No 2 Alexander Zverev could prove crucial for his recovery.
Despite celebrating Djokovic's victory, Murray has previously expressed strong admiration for Alcaraz's playing style.
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Novak Djokovic roared at Andy Murray after his Australian Open victory
Reuters
Footage emerged of Murray consoling the young Spaniard in the gym after Tuesday's defeat, a gesture widely praised on social media.
In March 2024, Murray wrote on X that watching the reigning Wimbledon and French Open champion made him "smile".
"I love watching Alcaraz 'cause of the way that he plays the game," Murray told Tennis Channel. "He's just got so much variety and power, and he tries stuff."
Alcaraz had been touched by Murray's praise, stating: "It's crazy, honestly. He has seen a lot of tennis during his career. Seeing these words from him for me is great."
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Novak Djokovic had to overcome injury to land a comeback win over Carlos Alcaraz
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Djokovic's victory marked several historic milestones in his illustrious career.
He became only the second player in the Open Era to reach 50 singles semi-finals at Grand Slam events, after Chris Evert's 52.
It also marked his 12th Australian Open semi-final appearance, second only to Roger Federer's 15 in the Open Era.
The Serbian holds an 8-4 head-to-head record against his semi-final opponent Zverev, including victory in their last Australian Open meeting in 2021.
Andy Murray could remain in Novak Djokovic's corner for the foreseeable future
Reuters
Reflecting on his quarter-final triumph, Djokovic said: "It felt like it was final of a Slam, to be honest I wish it was."
The victory keeps alive his hopes of securing a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title, which would surpass Margaret Court's all-time record.
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