Posted by Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Friday January 10, 2025
Novak Djokovic again Andy Murray the main storyline of the 2025 Australian Open. The pair, who have met four times in the final at the Australian Open, are hoping to go together this year, with the 24-time champion carrying the Scottish gun as his coach this year in Melbourne.
At a press day in Melbourne on Friday, Djokovic talked about what he sees as Murray's greatest strength.
Djokovic said Murray inspires him, first and foremost. “He inspired me and many people around the world,” said Djokovic. “I think his different opinion about my game is that he has played for me for 25 years. We started seeing each other when we were 12 years old. He knows the evolution of my game, I think the weaknesses and strengths of my game.
“I think his tennis IQ is very high. We all know that. He did a great job, especially after the surgery, his artificial hip, winning tournaments after that, playing at the level of the challengers, a great person in the sport, showing everyone what it means to be a champion in the real game. the feeling of that word.”
Djokovic added that the fact that Murray was new to the tour and facing the best players in the sport made him even more important.
“He also knows the game, the game of tennis, of the biggest players in the world right now because he just retired as a player,” said the 37-year-old player. “He was training and playing with all the top guys in the world until recently. I think he has a lot of knowledge about what's going on in the tour.”
“I'm here now to ruin his chances of winning another” 😅Andy Murray coaching Novak Djokovic after four defeats #AusOpen final against him 🏆 pic.twitter.com/hxCLxwdOtW
– Eurosport (@eurosport) January 9, 2025
The pair have spent up to 12 days on court practicing so far, so it's still early days for this high-profile pairing. But Djokovic likes that Murray encourages him, and adds that they are gradually opening channels of communication with each other.
“We are still getting to know each other in court. We spent eight days in pre-season and now we have four days here in Melbourne,” he said, adding: “He gives me motivation, he really encourages me to spend time on the court. We communicate a lot. We talk about many different things. He tries to understand me on different levels, talking to other team members who know me better. You are careful. He is a very dedicated professional.”
It's an exciting time for team Djokovic, as the Serbian legend looks to record his 25th major title and 11th in Australia. He is also chasing his 100th cap, as well as his 100th match win for Australia (he has 94).
Djokovic says his new coach has taken his position lightly.
He said: “It is natural for him. “His IQ in general and tennis IQ is very high. He sees it and speaks up when it matters most. I think he understands when he needs to say something and what to say and what to ask.
“Now all the cards are open on the table. That's what he wants. I support 100% that kind of communication where you share everything because that is the best way for him to understand you and help you in any way he can.”
Djokovic will face American card Nishesh Basavareddy in the first round match in Melbourne. The Australian Open starts on Sunday January 12.
