Andy Murray's short coaching spell with Novak Djokovic produced mixed results and exposed post-injury inconsistency. For bettors: expect bookmakers to price Djokovic more cautiously — consider avoiding heavy favourites on him until form stabilises or seek value backing in-form rivals in early rounds.
Murray admits coaching stint with Djokovic fell short of expectations
Andy Murray has conceded he "probably didn't get the results I would have liked" after a brief spell coaching Novak Djokovic. The partnership began after Murray stepped away from playing following the Paris Olympics and ended in May, not long before the clay season ramped up.
Early promise and the Australia setback
The pairing enjoyed a bright opening at the season's first major, where Djokovic reached the Australian Open semi-finals. That run included a high-profile win over Carlos Alcaraz, but Djokovic was forced to retire injured against Alexander Zverev with a hamstring problem — a turning point that halted momentum.
Inconsistency after the injury
Following the Australian Open injury, Djokovic struggled for continuity. He suffered back-to-back first-round exits in subsequent events before mounting a recovery that culminated in a run to the Miami final, where he lost to rising Czech talent Jakub Mensik. The stop-start sequence underlined fitness and form issues during the coaching period.
Murray’s takeaways and coaching philosophy
Murray reflected that the experience was invaluable despite the results. He said he was fully invested, learned a lot about coaching and formed positive relationships within the team. The 38-year-old stressed the importance of a coach bringing "good energy" and indicated he would focus on that quality if he takes another role.
Implications for Djokovic and the wider tour
The split raises questions about Djokovic's short-term prospects as he manages fitness and form. For rivals and tournament markets, the inconsistency could create more open draws and betting value on challengers in early rounds. Coaches and teams will likely prioritise stability and load management as Djokovic prepares for upcoming events.
Andy Murray pressured Wimbledon chiefs after Novak Djokovic was ordered to leave court
The Scot described working with his former rival as an “amazing experience” but “extremely demanding”
The Independent