Tennis icon Jimmy Connors has shared his thoughts on Novak Djokovic’s unexpected decision to bring Andy Murray on board as his new coach.
The eight-time Grand Slam winner believes Murray could help Djokovic feel more “comfortable” and “relaxed,” expressing support for the surprising collaboration.
Djokovic and Murray made headlines last month with the announcement of their partnership, which has become one of the year’s most talked-about tennis developments.
The two former rivals clashed on the court 36 times between 2006 and 2017, with Djokovic leading their head-to-head record 25-11.
Murray, who retired from professional tennis after the Paris Olympics in August, is set to join Djokovic’s coaching team for the first time at the 2025 Australian Open.
“We were going through different names and I realised the perfect coach for me at this point would be someone that has been through the experiences that I’m going through, possible multiple Grand Slam winner, former No 1,” Djokovic told Sky Sports.
“I was thinking about different people and then an Andy Murray discussion appeared on the table with me and my team.
“It was still a shock decision. It caught him a little bit off guard as well because he wasn’t expecting it, so we connected really fast and he accepted after a few days.
“I couldn’t be more excited about it. This collaboration is a surprise to me as well, to everyone. But it’s exciting for tennis.
“He’s been one of my greatest rivals. We’re the same age. We’ve played in all the biggest stadiums in our sport. So I can’t wait to get out on the court and prepare for next season.”
Speaking on the Advantage Connors podcast, Connors explained the way in which he feels Murray’s presence might help Djokovic perform.
“I think it enters a comfort zone,” the American said.
“They have competed against each other, they know each other’s game, they have spent time together – not only on the court, playing great matches – but also off the court.
“There comes a point in time in your later years where, if you feel comfortable and feel relaxed with the people around you, that allows you to go out and attempt to play your best tennis and give it your all.
“The older you get, it’s tougher to push yourself. You look at ‘Djoker’ and he does everything to get himself in prime condition.
“If he’s around someone who he feels comfortable with now – not that those in the past he didn’t feel comfortable with – but as you get older things change.
“Your mind changes, your outlook changes, your feelings change and all that. If you can go and be more relaxed going into the tennis, it allows you to play even better.”
The former world No 1 added: “Maybe that is a good thing. It also might only last a week, you don’t know.
“You have to give it a shot though, I like what he is doing. He is doing whatever he can to go another year at the right level.”
