Credit: AFP
Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic have mutually decided to terminate their coaching arrangement, as confirmed in a joint statement just a month before the start of Wimbledon.
The announcement, made earlier today, stated simply that the two tennis figures would “no longer be working together” on the court.
The brief partnership began in January, with Murray, who is set to turn 38 this week, working with Djokovic during the Australian Open in Melbourne. That initial collaboration saw the Serbian player reach the semi-finals before withdrawing due to injury during his match against Alex Zverev.
The three-time Grand Slam champion, Murray, was also present in Djokovic`s support team during the US Sunshine Swing in March, covering the Indian Wells and Miami Opens.
Despite initial expectations that the collaboration might continue through the clay court season and possibly up to Wimbledon, the end of their working relationship has now been officially confirmed.
Consequently, Andy Murray will not be part of Djokovic`s player box at the All England Club later in June or early July.
In the statement, Djokovic, who recently lost in the second round of the Madrid Open to world No. 44 Matteo Arnaldi, conveyed his thanks: “Thank you, coach Andy, for all the hard work, fun and support over the last six months. On and off the court, I really enjoyed deepening our friendship together.”
It was last November when Murray, following his retirement from professional tennis after the Paris Olympics, received an unexpected call from Djokovic, proposing the coaching role.
This collaboration between two former rivals was seen as surprising by many in the tennis world, and its ending before the summer season concludes is perhaps even more so.
Overall, Djokovic`s performance this year has been considered underwhelming, having lost seven of his 19 matches and not yet securing a title.
The joint statement issued by their management teams earlier today formalised the end of their professional relationship.
According to a source close to one of the players, the decision to part ways was reached by mutual agreement.
Murray also provided a comment: “Thanks to Novak for the unbelievable opportunity to work together and thanks to his team for all their hard work over the past six months. I wish Novak all the best for the rest of the season.”
Credit: AFP
