Djokovic Praises Murray’s Influence Ahead of First Tournament with New Coach

Novak Djokovic praises Andy Murray for bringing a “fresh perspective” to his game.

Djokovic begins his 2025 season at the Brisbane International next week.

Murray, who retired in August, will join Djokovic ahead of the Australian Open.

 

Novak Djokovic has praised Andy Murray for “bringing a fresh perspective” to his game as he gears up for his first tournament since appointing his longtime rival as his new coach.

The 37-year-old Serb, a record 24-time major champion, will kick off his 2025 season at the Brisbane International against Australian Rinky Hijikata next week.

While Murray, the three-time Grand Slam champion from Britain, retired in August, he will join Djokovic before the Australian Open, which begins on January 12.

“He has a unique perspective on my game as one of the greatest rivals I’ve had. He knows the pros and cons of my game,” Djokovic said of Murray.

“He played until recently on the tour, so he knows all the other best players currently in the world, the youngsters, and the weaknesses and strengths in their game. I look forward to it, I really do.

“I think he’s bringing a fresh look to my game and I’ll be able to benefit from that, no doubt, on the court. But also that champion mentality he has, I’m sure we’ll match very well.”

In November, Djokovic revealed that he will work with Andy Murray until the end of the Australian Open before deciding on any long-term partnership.

The Olympic gold medalist is aiming to secure his 100th ATP singles title in Brisbane, followed by a record-extending 11th Australian Open title.

A victory at Melbourne Park next month would give Djokovic the outright record for most Grand Slam titles, surpassing Margaret Court, with whom he is currently tied at 24.

After a 2024 season where he failed to win any of the four major titles—marking only the second time since 2010 that this has occurred—Djokovic plans a busier schedule in 2025, having dropped to world number seven.

“I’m planning to play a few more tournaments than I did last season,” Djokovic said.

“Hopefully the level is also going to go up and as a consequence I’ll be able to hopefully win a few tournaments and get my ranking higher.”