Novak Djokovic rates Andy Murray's first major match as coach after avoiding Australian Open scare
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Novak Djokovic has credited Andy Murray for helping him get through a tricky first-round match against American teenager Nisheesh Basavareddy on Monday.
The Serbian is bidding to win a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title in Melbourne, but enters the major as the seventh seed.
It's the first time in seven years that Djokovic has been seeded as low as seventh at a major tournament.
He fell down the rankings at the end of the 2024 season as he played just one tournament after the US Open
Andy Murray was in Novak Djokovic's corner for his match
REUTERS
His drop in the rankings has proven costly as Djokovic has been drawn in the same half of the draw as Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev.
But Djokovic is always considered a strong favourite at the Australian Open as he holds the record for most titles with 10.
To best prepare for the first major of 2025, Djokovic brought in Andy Murray to help him on the practice courts.
The duo were seen hard at work in the week before the Australian Open and Murray was vocal from the stands throughout the first-round match as Djokovic struggled to get going.
Basavareddy took a surprise one-set lead and appeared on course to cause a huge upset midway through the second set.
But Djokovic managed to turn things around to book his spot in the second round and paid credit to Murray's influence afterwards.
"It's all business for us now," Djokovic said.
"I'm thrilled to have him in my corner.
"I must say it was a little bit of a strange experience having him on my side of the court.
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Nishesh Basavareddy made Novak Djokovic work hard for his win
REUTERS
"We played against each other for 20 years at the highest level and he gave me some great advice mid match.
"I think its really good that we have an opportunity to allow coaching in the same side and exchange some feedback.
"It's a completely different angle when you're watching from the side and he's been doing really well.
"It's been an enjoyable experience and hopefully we don't stop here.
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Andy Murray is working with Novak Djokovic until the end of the Australian Open
REUTERS
Djokovic cut a frustrated figure throughout the match and he still wasn't happy even after hitting the match winner.
But the 24-time Grand Slam winner reserved special praise for his young opponent, who pushed him in the early stages.
"He deserves every bit of applause," Djokovic added.
"I've never seen him play. These matches can be tricky.
"I was pleasantly surprised. I'm sure we'll see a lot of him in the future."
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