Rafael Nadal ‘Surprised’ Andy Murray Chose to Coach Novak Djokovic So Soon After Retirement
Rafael Nadal has expressed his surprise at Andy Murray’s quick return to life on the tennis tour — this time not as a player, but as a coach for former rival Novak Djokovic.
Both Nadal and Murray stepped away from professional tennis in 2024, but their post-retirement paths couldn’t look more different. While Nadal has remained away from the court since his emotional sendoff in November, Murray jumped back in just months later, taking on a high-profile coaching role with world No. 5 Novak Djokovic.
Murray began working with Djokovic during the off-season and has since joined him at tournaments including the Australian Open, Indian Wells, Miami, and Madrid. The pairing raised eyebrows given their history of intense battles at the top of the sport, but Nadal said it wasn’t the collaboration itself that shocked him — it was the timing.
“It surprised me a bit that, immediately after retiring, Andy wanted to start a project again where he’d be travelling,” Nadal told The Telegraph. “But I understand that the project to be with Novak is an attractive one, and one he would be passionate about.”
Despite his initial surprise, Nadal gave the duo his blessing and acknowledged the potential benefits of the partnership. “I understand for Novak, being with one of his biggest rivals as his coach must give him motivation,” he said. “It’s a good combination. Andy is a real tennis enthusiast, and to have this opportunity, he’s taken it.”
The two tennis legends briefly reunited at the recent Laureus World Sports Awards, where Nadal was honored with the Sporting Icon award and Djokovic handed over the Sportsman of the Year title to athlete Mondo Duplantis. Djokovic praised Nadal’s legacy in a red-carpet interview, calling him a deserving recipient, and shared his words on Instagram.
Nadal responded warmly, writing: “Thanks @djokernole for your words! It was great to see you yesterday in Madrid. Good luck for the tournament and the season!”
