“He's been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be”: Novak Djokovic's emotional hug with Andy Murray after beating Alcaraz

Novak Djokovic expressed his gratitude to Andy Murray following his quarterfinal triumph against Carlos Alcaraz at the Australian Open. The 24-time Grand Slam champion overcame physical challenges in the second set to secure a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory.

The Serbian player is experiencing his first tournament with Murray as his coach, just months before the Briton’s retirement. The former world No. 1 has been actively involved in training sessions and matches, offering his support. Djokovic thanked his former rival for his contributions to the team over the past few weeks.

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The praise for Murray is not new; since the Scotsman joined Djokovic's team, the 37-year-old Serbian has frequently expressed appreciation for Murray’s commitment to helping him. After overcoming the tough challenge posed by Alcaraz, Djokovic immediately approached Murray for a hug, acknowledging the guidance he had provided throughout the match.

“I felt to do it in the end of the match. I feel more and more connected with Andy every day,” the world No. 7 stated. “We face challenges every single day. People don't see that obviously. I mean, we try to make the most out of every day and grow together. He's been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be.”

“So it was kind of a, yeah, gesture of appreciation, respect for him, and the fact that he's out there, and he doesn't need to be,” Djokovic added. “He accepted to work with me. He's giving all his support to me, to the whole team, and trying to make it work.”

“This was a huge win for all of us, including Andy and myself, you know, for the relationship. Yeah, that's why I went to him, because I just felt very grateful that he's there.”

Djokovic has reached the Australian Open semifinals for the 12th time in his career, a tournament where he has claimed 10 titles and only fell to Jannik Sinner in 2024. This time, he will face world No. 2 Alexander Zverev as he seeks another final. The Serbian, now partnered with his former rival Andy Murray, has shown he has a strong chance of capturing the title once again.

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