Novak Djokovic has sensationally appointed former rival Andy Murray as his coach for the upcoming Australian Open.
Murray, who only stepped away from playing at this summer’s Olympics, will try to help the Serbian claim a record-extending 11th title in Melbourne next year.
Announcing the news on social media, Djokovic said: ‘We played each other since we were boys. 25 years of being rivals of pushing each other beyond our limits.
‘We had some of the most epic battles in our sport. They called us gamechangers, risk takers, history makers.
‘I thought our story may be over turns out it has one final chapter. It’s time for one of my toughest opponents to step into my corner. Welcome on board coach… Andy Murray.’
Murray added: I’m going to be joining Novak’s team in the off season, helping him to prepare for the Australian Open.
‘I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him to achieve his goals.’
Murray and Djokovic enjoyed a healthy rivalry throughout their careers but were also good friends off the court.
Djokovic got the better of Murray in 25 of their 36 meetings overall – including four Australian Open finals – but the Scot famously triumphed in 2013 to win his first Wimbledon title.
The current World No.7 Djokovic has been without a full-time coach since parting ways with Goran Ivanisevic in March earlier this year.
The 37-year-old briefly worked with Nenad Zimonjic and Boris Bosnjakovic at points during the year and even floated the idea of coaching himself for the final chapters of his legendary career.
However, the Serb has now brought on board Murray to shake things up ahead of the new season having failed to win a Grand Slam this year for the first time since 2017.
Murray had often mooted his interest in transitioning into coaching when his playing days were over and now takes on this huge new role with just under two months to go until the Australian Open begins on 12 January. The men’s final takes place on 26 January.
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