BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — For Novak Djokovic, the decision to enlist Andy Murray as his coach felt like a natural progression. During his visit to Argentina for a farewell match honoring Juan Martín del Potro, Djokovic shared his reasons for choosing the former competitor after having gone six months without a coach.
Last week, both Djokovic and Murray announced their collaboration ahead of the upcoming Australian Open scheduled for January.
“I have faced him since my early years in tennis… and there are not many individuals who have captured multiple Grand Slam titles,” Djokovic remarked in Spanish during a pre-match press event dedicated to Del Potro.
Djokovic, who has amassed an impressive 24 Grand Slam titles, holds the record for the longest duration at No. 1 in the history of tennis. In contrast, Murray has three major titles to his name, along with two Olympic singles gold medals, having concluded his professional career at the top of the ATP rankings in 2016. He officially retired following the Paris Olympics in August.
Both players, born just a week apart in May of 1987 and currently at the age of 37, began competing against each other in their junior days. Throughout their careers, they have faced off a total of 36 times, with Djokovic securing victory in 25 of those encounters.
“He understands my style of play and the challenges I’ve faced intimately,” Djokovic added, noting that he currently ranks seventh in the ATP standings. “He is familiar with my weaknesses and understands my flaws.”
Since parting ways with Goran Ivanisevic in March, Djokovic has been searching for a full-time coaching replacement.
In a thrilling exhibition match held in Parque Roca, Buenos Aires, Del Potro, who famously won the US Open in 2009, triumphed over Djokovic, winning with scores of 6-4 and 7-5.
“We have competed against one another at the highest levels of tennis, yet our friendship has always overshadowed our rivalry,” Djokovic reflected. “Today, we gather to honor Juan Martín’s remarkable career and to cherish every moment together.”
