Former eight-time Grand Slam champion in doubles Nenad Zimonjic underlines that Novak Djokovic is “a smart guy” and therefore knows extremely well why he added Andy Murray to his coaching staff for the Australian Open.
When the record 24-time Grand Slam champion announced that one of his biggest rivals would be joining his team for the start of 2025, many were left stunned but also excited about seeing how that goes. However, there were also some who expressed skepticism, since Murray has no coaching experience and he is just four months removed from ending his pro career.
But Zimonjic – who worked with Djokovic in the past and at times this year – says it is an absolute nonsense to think that the Serb made that move for the entertainment purposes. And when making that clear, the former doubles world No. 1 noted that he believes the British tennis legend could help very much on the tactical side.
Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic© Andy Murray/Instagram – Fair Use
Zimonjic on Djokovic joining forces with Murray
“Novak is a very smart guy in making decisions and his career is proof of that. So whenever he needed something really special in terms of coach and help, he reached out. The results are proof of that and I would say that he knows the best,” the 48-year-old told Ubitennis.
“They know each other quite well and they’ve been playing against each other or together since they were kids. They have a similar style. Tactically, Andy was one of the best guys. So he can help him with a different view and different perspectives.
“This is something new for Andy. All the experience that he had with the different coaches in the past and him being a player going through similar situations on his own, it can definitely help.”
In the same interview, Zimonjic added that Djokovic and Murray will probably use the Australian Open as a test and then decide whether or not to continue with their partnership.
Also, the Serbian tennis legend said he always admired the Briton and would root for him to succeed in his new role.