Seeing Andy Murray take on a coaching role has certainly surprised the tennis world. Just three months after retiring from professional tennis at the Paris Olympics in August, news broke on November 23rd that he would coach Novak Djokovic at the upcoming Australian Open. This unexpected alliance raised eyebrows, especially since Djokovic holds a 25-11 advantage in their head-to-head encounters. But now that this partnership is official, the big question is: what will Murray bring to Djokovic’s team for the new season?

In a November 26th episode of Served podcast, Andy Roddick shared his thoughts on this intriguing development. As a former pro and current analyst, Roddick has witnessed both players’ talents up close. He acknowledged Djokovic’s status as a top player but pointed out his flaws. Roddick noted that Jannik Sinner has proven to be a tough opponent for Djokovic, having defeated him in both their encounters this year. Meanwhile, he highlighted that Murray’s experience in “problem-solving for what you’ve lost” during his last five years on tour could be invaluable to Djokovic.

Roddick emphasized that Murray’s struggles with injuries have given him insights that could benefit Djokovic, particularly as they both approach their late thirties. “Like me saying ‘Novak at 38 isn’t as good as Novak at 32’ shouldn’t be controversial,” he remarked, which shouldn’t be controversial given their shared experiences. Both players were born just a week apart in May 1987. Noting that although Djokovic has amassed more titles and “ticks a certain way,” Murray’s battles with injuries over the last few years have shaped his perspective.

Significant challenges have marked the Briton’s journey. In 2019, he faced the possibility of retirement due to a hip injury and famously broke down in tears during a press conference. After undergoing surgery and fitting a metal cap in his hip socket, he made an impressive comeback but ultimately retired due to ongoing injuries after back surgery in June. However, he still holds 46 titles, including three Grand Slam, 14 Masters 1000 titles and two Olympic Gold medals-taking the crown as Great Britain’s most successful tennis player of the Open era.

Roddick praised Andy Murray for having “the highest tennis IQ,” highlighting that he “competed with these kinds of superheroes without the biggest shot on the court without being the fastest one of them, still moves great but plays well from extended positions. He’s a master of nuance. He’s a master of scouting reports, he knows everything backwards. He’s one of the most detail oriented guys ever.” This analytical approach was expected to resonate well with Novak Djokovic, who has an impressive record of 99 titles, including 24 Grand Slam and one gold medal.

The two have known each other since their junior days. In announcing this new coaching role, Murray expressed his excitement, “I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change.” Many analysts agree that this partnership holds great potential for both players as they embark on this new chapter together.

Tennis insiders share their views on this new alliance between the two legends

Following the announcement of Andy Murray as Novak Djokovic’s coach, the tennis community buzzed with excitement. On The Tennis Podcast, David Law remarked, “While Murray might not drastically change Djokovic’s game, his insights could lead to valuable tweaks.” He reminisced about a memorable moment at the Laver Cup where Djokovic coached Murray, emphasizing their unique dynamic. Law added, “What Murray can bring is that unique perspective of playing Novak, of losing to him, but also beating him. He can work out ways to dismantle the Djokovic game on the biggest stages.”

Even renowned coach Brad Gilbert and former ATP star Mardy Fish also expressed their enthusiasm for this unexpected pairing. Gilbert praised the decision as a “good move,” stating, “Murray has a unique understanding of the game that can help Novak navigate his challenges.” Fish humorously quipped, “I turned it down,” while acknowledging the significance of this partnership. He noted, “Having someone like Andy in your corner is invaluable. They know each other’s games inside out.”

Now with nearly a month left before the Australian Open commences, the tennis community eagerly awaits to see how this alliance would unfold on the court.