Andy Murray’s brief spell as Novak Djokovic’s coach did not quite go as he had hoped it would.
Djokovic parted ways with Murray after six months working together on the ATP Tour, during which the Serb reached the semifinals of the Australian Open.
The 24-time major champion said he ‘couldn’t get more’ out of the player-coach relationship with the Briton, but stated his respect for his longtime rival ‘remains the same’.
Recently, Murray reflected on his time with Djokovic and hinted at the profile of player he would prefer taking under his wing in the future.
Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty ImagesAndy Murray reflects on his time coaching Novak Djokovic
In an interview with The Times, Murray said: “At the beginning I enjoyed it, but obviously the results were not what I expected, and I’m sure it wasn’t [for Djokovic] as well. I’m still glad I did it.
“It was a unique opportunity, and if I hadn’t, I would have regretted it. To get to spend time with one of my biggest rivals, one of the best athletes of all time, trying to help him and learn from him and understand him was fascinating.”
“If you want to do a good job of coaching, in my opinion, you need to spend a lot of time with the individual and that’s hard when they don’t live near you.
Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images
“A British player would be a lot less demanding time-wise because you don’t have to be away from your family on off-weeks training, whereas Novak was living in Spain at the time so you’re travelling then as well.
“To do it so soon after I finished playing was difficult. It was still a great opportunity, but it’s not something I would jump into for quite a while. I don’t think I have any desire to do that right now.”
Novak Djokovic’s record with Andy Murray as his coach
Murray first joined forces with Djokovic in November last year, and had his first and only Grand Slam run in the legend’s corner at the Australian Open.
In Melbourne, the 38-year-old advanced to the semifinals, beating Carlos Alcaraz en route, but was forced to retire due to injury in his final four clash with Alexander Zverev.
Djokovic’s form dipped in the events that followed, however, crashing out in the first round in Qatar, Indian Wells, Monte-Carlo and Madrid, despite making the final in Miami.
He ended his partnership with Murray before the Geneva Open, finishing with a record of 12-7 together.