Felix Auger-Aliassime reacts on social media after finding out Novak Djokovic will be Andy Murray’s new coach
In a surprising collaboration, Andy Murray will coach Novak Djokovic at the 2025 Australian Open.
During a gripping Davis Cup semi-final between Jannik Sinner and Alex de Minaur, a moment of monumental news briefly shifted the focus of the tennis world away from the action on the court.
Andy Murray, 37, retired earlier this year after a decorated career that included three Grand Slam titles and two Olympic gold’s.
However, he’s clearly longing for a way back onto the tour, with the shock announcement that he and Novak Djokovic will be combining forces next year.
Reflecting on their new partnership, Murray said, “I’m looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change.”
Felix Auger-Aliassime reacts to Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic news
This marks Murray’s first step into coaching, and the pair will prepare together in the lead-up to the tournament, where Djokovic has dominated with 10 titles, including four victories over Murray in the final.
In news that understandably taken the tennis world by storm, pundits and players alike have shared gobsmacked reactions to the new partnership.
Canada’s Felix Auger-Aliassime, who has faced both Djokovic and Murray throughout his time on tour, said on X: “So the ATP Tour really is a movie.”
Murray’s former coach Mark Petchey weighed in too, but suggested he wasn’t too surprised by the appointment.
Emphasizing the pair’s gritty, unresting mentality, he said: “Anyone interpreting the ‘The Hire’ as a sign of winding things down, has never been in either of these two company for 5 minutes. If you have, you wouldn’t be saying that.”
Novak Djokovic’s appointment of Andy Murray is brave but smart
While Djokovic remains capable of challenging the new generation of stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, this move signals a desire to adapt and evolve in the twilight of his career.
The Paris Olympics was his primary focus this year and Djokovic completed that – he himself admitted it was his sole goal for the season.
Now he has sought a coach with unparalleled insight into his game – someone who’s faced him at the highest level across their careers.
Murray’s deep understanding of the modern tour, coupled with his personal experience competing in Djokovic’s era, offers a unique perspective.
Despite Murray’s recent retirement and lack of formal coaching experience, his knowledge of what it takes to win on the biggest stages could provide the edge Djokovic needs to capture his elusive 25th Grand Slam title.
