Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic have ended their high-profile coaching partnership just two weeks before the 2025 French Open, as announced on May 13, 2025. The decision, confirmed by Murray’s representatives, comes six months after the former rivals teamed up in November 2024, with Murray taking on his first coaching role to guide Djokovic at the Australian Open. The split, described as mutual, follows a mixed run of results and Djokovic’s recent struggles on clay, prompting speculation about the timing and its impact on the Serbian’s Grand Slam aspirations.
The partnership began with promise, with Djokovic reaching the Australian Open semi-finals in January 2025, defeating Carlos Alcaraz in a thrilling quarter-final before retiring against Alexander Zverev due to a hamstring injury. Murray’s tactical input, praised for its meticulousness, also helped Djokovic reach the Miami Open final in March, though he lost to Jakub Mensik. However, setbacks in Monte-Carlo (loss to Alejandro Tabilo) and Madrid (loss to Matteo Arnaldi) highlighted inconsistencies, with Djokovic playing only two clay matches this season, both defeats. Murray’s absence during the Monte-Carlo Masters, where Djokovic worked with his brother Marko, hinted at logistical challenges, as Murray balanced family life and other commitments.
Murray expressed gratitude in a statement: “Thanks to Novak for the unbelievable opportunity to work together and thanks to his team for all their hard work over the past six months. I wish Novak all the best for the rest of the season.” Djokovic echoed the sentiment, saying, “Thank you, coach Andy, for all the hard work, fun & support over last six months on & off the court, really enjoyed deepening our friendship together.” The split was anticipated by some, with former coach Mark Petchey suggesting in January that the partnership might not be a “slam dunk” long-term due to the pressures of coaching at Djokovic’s level.
Djokovic, now ranked No. 7, is set to compete at the Geneva Open before Roland Garros, where he seeks a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam title. Without Murray, he faces a challenging path, potentially against Jannik Sinner or Alcaraz. Posts on X reflected mixed sentiments, with some fans unsurprised given Djokovic’s form, while others lamented the end of a blockbuster duo. Murray’s future plans remain unclear, but his coaching stint has sparked interest in his potential to guide other players, with Jack Draper previously mentioned as a possible candidate. (Word count: 400)[](https://www.scotsman.com/sport/other-sport/andy-murray-and-novak-djokovic-split-as-tennis-stars-have-say-on-coaching-partnership-call-5125284)
