Dunblane tennis star Andy Murray has sent shockwaves through the tennis world after announcing a coaching link-up with long-time rival and 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.
The news broke over the weekend, with the Serbian confirming the arrangement via a video on social media.
The two players, who came through the ranks together through the competitive juniors circuit after being born just seven days apart in May 1987, met 36 times during their careers – with Djokovic winning the rivalry 25-11.
In their Grand Slam final encounters, Djokovic won five matches to two – although Murray claimed the first of his three Grand Slam titles against the Serb in the 2012 US Open and Wimbledon in 2013.
On the video posted on X, Djokovic said: “I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my coach.
“We had some of the most epic battles in our sport… I thought our story was over, turns out it has one final chapter.
“It is time for one of my toughest opponents to step into my corner.”
Meanwhile, Murray said: “I’m going to be joining Novak’s team in the off-season, helping him to prepare for the Australian Open.
“I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him to achieve his goals.”
Murray retired earlier this year after competing in the singles and doubles competitions in the Paris Olympics, with much speculation about his next move and whether he would stay in the tennis world.
It is believed that he has agreed to be in Djokovic’s corner into and through the upcoming Australian Open tournament.
The 37-year-old Serb holds the record for the most Grand Slam titles in the sport, having claimed 24 wins in tennis’ biggest events – including ten wins in Melbourne.
He beat Murray in four of those finals as the pair continued their red-hot rivalry through the early 2010s – and now Murray will be hoping to add a little extra as Djokovic aims to seal title number 25 Down Under in February.