LONDON — Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray has revealed he is open to a return to coaching "at some stage" but admits he still has much to learn following his brief stint working with Novak Djokovic earlier this year. The British tennis icon, who has been vocal about his post-retirement plans, hinted that mentoring younger players could be in his future.
Murray, 37, joined Djokovic's team for a short period in March 2024, marking an unexpected collaboration between two of tennis' fiercest rivals. While the partnership lasted only a few weeks, Murray described the experience as "invaluable" for understanding the demands of coaching at the highest level. "I went into it thinking I knew a lot, but you quickly realize how much nuance there is," he told reporters.
Learning from the Best
The former world No. 1 emphasized that his time with Djokovic—despite its brevity—gave him unique insights into modern coaching dynamics. "Novak's attention to detail is incredible. Seeing how he prepares, how he analyzes opponents, even how he communicates with his team—it's a masterclass," Murray said. The Scot noted that while he initially hesitated to take on the role, Djokovic's persistence convinced him.
Key takeaways from Murray's coaching experiment included:
- The importance of tailored recovery strategies for elite athletes
- How to balance technical adjustments with mental preparation
- The evolving role of data analytics in match planning
Future Coaching Ambitions
While Murray remains focused on his playing career, he acknowledged that coaching is "definitely something I'd consider down the line." He expressed particular interest in working with British talent, citing his experience mentoring younger players at the National Tennis Centre. "I've had so many great coaches throughout my career—it would be rewarding to pass that knowledge on," he added.
Potential Challenges
Murray was candid about the hurdles he'd face transitioning to coaching full-time. "The travel would be tough with a young family, and I'm not sure I'd want the pressure of being a head coach right away," he admitted. However, he didn't rule out advisory roles or short-term collaborations similar to his Djokovic arrangement.
Tennis analysts have speculated about which players might benefit from Murray's expertise. Former Davis Cup captain John Lloyd suggested: "Andy's tactical mind and work ethic could transform a promising junior. Someone like Jack Draper would thrive under his guidance."
Legacy Beyond Playing
With 46 ATP titles and two Olympic gold medals, Murray's playing credentials are unquestioned. His potential coaching career could further cement his status as one of Britain's most influential tennis figures. "I want to stay involved in the sport however I can," he said. "If that means helping the next generation avoid some of the mistakes I made, that would be incredibly fulfilling."
The tennis world will be watching closely to see if and when Murray makes his coaching return. For now, fans can enjoy seeing one of the game's greatest competitors still battling on court while quietly preparing for his next chapter.