Novak Djokovic announced that his partnership with Andy Murray will be extended "indefinitely" as they prepare to travel together for the Sunshine Double, which kicks off in Indian Wells during the first week of March.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion began working with Murray at the Australian Open, the first tournament where they were seen training together, and where Djokovic reached the semifinals. In his new role, the Briton has been an important support for his former rival, and both are optimistic about continuing to work together.
“We had a chat the day after I finished [the Australian Open] – we reflected on the period we spent together,” Djokovic commented upon arriving in Doha. “We agreed he was going to take some time and think, speak with his family members, and see if he decides to keep working."
“I expressed my desire to continue the collaboration with him, so I am really glad he did accept,” added the 10-time Australian Open champion. “It is indefinite in terms of how long we are going to work together, but we agreed most likely in the States and some clay-court tournaments. We will see how it goes after that.”
Nole suffered a thigh injury while competing in Melbourne and was expected to be out for several months. However, he reappeared this Tuesday, February 18, at the Qatar Open, where he was defeated in the first round by an inspired Matteo Berrettini in straight sets. With the Serb’s early exit—having traveled without Murray this time—his next challenge will be Indian Wells, a tournament he has won five times.
Djokovic stated in the press conference that he feels he has already learned from his former rival in the short time they have worked together. He also acknowledged that Murray was one of his toughest opponents on tour, with 14 victories against him in their head-to-head, including two major finals, placing him just behind Federer and Nadal in that regard.
“He obviously has a unique perspective on my game. He has played me and all of the current best players in the world and knows everyone well,” Djokovic added. “He knows exactly what we need to do tactically—the evolution of my game and what needs to be improved.”
“He has a positive approach and has handled the whole pressure very well, as it is a completely different situation from being there as a player. He has been terrific with all the other team members, and while it was unfortunate the way the Australian Open finished with injury, we had a great run.”
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Can't help but suspect Vukov is back to his old self again. Thank you, WTA. Perhaps you can give them a "Battling Couple of the Year Award 2026" ??
mandoist08-11-2026 - Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.mandoist06-11-2026
- Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Having spent weeks and weeks through the years on tour, I can say with confidence that Conchita was (is) one of the very few who realize the surprising level of maturity (and sometimes lack of) which Mirra seems to have developed in such a demanding adult world of Pro-Tennis. While at the same time reminding herself (Conchita, that is) that Mirra is still young and developing mentally and physically. The general public may forget at times, or not at all realize, these modern era young athletes do not have a 'normal' Youth. It's a major sacrifice, among countless sacrifices, these athletes must make. People who blow-off that fact are ignorant and unfair when they blurt out, "They choose fame so they have to put up with the intrusions on their lives". No, they do not.mandoist05-11-2026
- Okay... someone with a camera was EAVESDROPPING on a private conversation. Shouldn't that be the point of discussion here? Regardless of the sensationalist crap by media, Pegula (and anyone) has a right to an opinion. There used to be an expectation that private conversations were respected, regardless of 'stardom' and whatever other defensive excuses media tries to shove in our faces. Boo-hoo if feelings are hurt. BTW: Having been employed at various tourney venues, etc., I can't tell you how nasty and offensive players can be when discussing their opponents and colleagues... in "private". Well, I could, but won't. I also challenge anyone to deny what Jessica said is false.mandoist05-11-2026
- Vacherot is Mongasque, rather than Swiss. The tournament was Swiss :DTrwd7702-11-2026
- After a couple decades traveling to IIHF tourneys overseas... our family is done with it... and I will not be the only one!! Bad enough the NHL allows Ovachenko (a Putin Supporter and Campaigner) to live and play in the USA. Let's not forget the STATE SPONSORED RUSSIAN DOPING PROGRAMS still in effect today.mandoist31-10-2026
