Andy Murray, the celebrated British tennis star, opened up about his brief stint as a coach and hinted that he would consider returning to the role under the right circumstances. In an exclusive conversation with Sky Sports, the two‑time Wimbledon champion reflected on his partnership with Novak Djokovic, discussed the Serbian’s prospects for a record‑breaking 25th Grand Slam, and shared personal insights about life after professional tennis. Murray’s foray into coaching began in November 2024, just three months after he formally hung up his racket at the Paris Olympic Games.
He joined Djokovic’s team, which at the time comprised a diverse group of physiotherapists, fitness experts, nutritionists and other specialists from varied cultural backgrounds. Their collaboration lasted six months, covering the Australian Open and three additional tournaments before they mutually decided to part ways in May 2025.
During the interview, Murray was candid about the experience. "Djokovic probably learned nothing from me," he joked, before adding, "No, I learned a lot and honestly, I would coach again but probably not right now.
I've had a few opportunities to coach but I don’t really want to do loads of travelling right now unless it’s with my family." The former world No. 1 emphasized that while the prospect of coaching remains appealing, his priorities have shifted toward family life and minimizing the extensive travel that a coaching schedule demands.
Murray’s own playing résumé is impressive: two Wimbledon titles, a 2012 US Open victory, back‑to‑back Olympic singles gold medals, and a career head‑to‑head record against Djokovic of 11‑8 in finals. Yet transitioning from player to coach proved to be a "different kettle of fish," as he described it.
He noted that his deep familiarity with Djokovic’s game, built over years of competition and study, gave him a unique perspective on the Serbian’s daily routine and preparation methods. "From a coaching perspective it’s about how you communicate your message to the player and how you listen to them," Murray explained. He credited his experience as a father of four for sharpening his empathy and ability to see situations from another person’s viewpoint. The former champion also reflected on the dynamics of being part of a coaching team versus being the focal point as a player.
"When you’re the focal point, the whole team works for you. When you’re part of a coaching team you’re a small part of a larger effort aimed at helping an individual perform at their best," he said. This shift required Murray to adapt his communication style and develop a more collaborative mindset.
Regarding Djokovic’s chances of clinching a 25th Grand Slam, Murray was optimistic but realistic. He acknowledged the physical challenges that come with age, noting that Djokovic, who will turn 39 in May, must balance match play with injury prevention. "If you play too much tennis you risk injury, but if you don’t play enough you’re not match‑hardened for the rigors of a two‑week major," Murray observed. He cited Djokovic’s 2023 season, when the Serbian secured his fourth US Open and equalled the all‑time Grand Slam tally at 24, as evidence of his enduring talent.
Yet the Serbian fell short in the 2024 Wimbledon final to Carlos Alcaraz and again at the Australian Open, underscoring the fine line between preparation and overexertion. Murray also reflected on his own decision to retire.
Despite enduring a major hip‑resurfacing operation in 2019 and never quite recapturing his pre‑injury dominance, he continued to compete because of his love for the sport. "I could have retired four or five years earlier.
If the only reason you play a sport is the results, you miss the joy of training, traveling and competing," he said. He expressed no regret about his timing, noting that he left the tour when his body signaled it was time, allowing him to transition smoothly into a new chapter.
Looking ahead, Murray is eager to spend more time with his family, especially his four children, and has taken up golf as a new competitive outlet. He recently mentioned a friendly rivalry with his older brother Jamie, who announced his retirement from professional golf. "Right now, it’s me," Murray laughed, adding that Jamie could quickly regain his form within six months.
In summary, Andy Murray’s brief coaching venture gave him valuable insights into the nuances of guiding a top‑level athlete, reinforced his desire to stay close to family, and left the door ajar for future coaching opportunities should the circumstances align. Meanwhile, he remains a steadfast supporter of Novak Djokovic’s quest for an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam, confident that the Serbian’s talent, when paired with optimal preparation, can still rewrite tennis history.