“I can’t wait to see more”: Laura Robson surprised by Andy Murray’s coaching role during Djokovic victory

Laura Robson was surprised by Andy Murray’s active coaching role during Novak Djokovic’s win over rising American star Nishes Basavareddy. The Serbian faced challenges in the early stages of the match but managed to secure a 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 victory to advance to the second round of the Australian Open.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion is chasing his 11th title in Melbourne and brought in his former rival Murray as coach to continue contending for major titles. The Briton, who retired just months ago, made his coaching debut, giving close instructions from one side of the court.

Murray’s coaching role impresses Robson

Former WTA top-30 player Laura Robson shared her thoughts on Eurosport, expressing surprise at how vocal Murray was during the match. Robson, who partnered with Murray in mixed doubles at the 2012 London Olympics to win a silver medal, said: “I did manage to keep an eye on him. I was even looking at the end to see if he would stay for the interview. He did not.”

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“He was out of there pronto. I don’t think he’s used to sitting down and watching a match for three hours. He was stretching his back out at the end; it’s tough even on the sidelines,” she added. “I spoke with Novak’s agents after the match, and they said he’s been locked in from the start.”

Robson highlighted Murray’s significant role on Djokovic’s team and noted the three-time Grand Slam champion’s serious approach to his new job. “He wouldn’t have taken the job unless he was 100% committed.”

“They’ve even had some intense games of crazy golf, I’ve heard,” Robson added. “He’s really integrated into the team because, despite traveling to the same tournaments for 15-20 years, he wouldn’t have known Novak’s physio and trainer that well.”

“It looks like he’s enjoying it, and I can’t wait to see more. Now that the first match is done, they can really be themselves.”

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Meanwhile, seven-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander discussed Djokovic’s prospects in the draw after his opening match. “It’s a Novak that can go far,” Wilander stated. “He needs to play better than he did in the first set and a half, but I think he was a bit surprised too.”

“For someone like him, it’s not about playing well — it’s about getting through and not spending four or five hours on court. In the end, he served brilliantly, moved brilliantly, and never looked tired. It’s a Novak Djokovic who can definitely win the tournament.”

“But it’s dangerous to lose the first set against stronger opponents, so he needs to be sharper early on,” Wilander concluded.

Djokovic will face Portugal’s Jaime Faria in the second round. The 21-year-old qualifier, world No. 125, comfortably defeated Pavel Kotov in straight sets to reach his first Grand Slam main draw.

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