Fans hail ‘best pairing of all time’ after Novak Djokovic’s incredible announcement that former rival Andy Murray will coach him for the 2025 Australian Open

Tennis fans were left stunned by Novak Djokovic’s announcement that his former rival Andy Murray will coach him for the 2025 Australian Open.

The 24-time Grand Slam winner commented: ‘I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my Coach. Looking forward to start of the season and competing in Australia alongside Andy with whom I have shared many exceptional moments on the Australian soil.’

Tennis fans quickly reacted to the news on social media, with many excited over the new partnership, while others took it as an opportunity to aim jibes at Murray for his struggles against Djokovic on the court.

‘WHAT?? THAT MIGHT BE THE BEST PAIRING OF ALL TIME’, wrote one user on X.

Another said: ‘If you can’t beat them, join them’, in reference to Murray’s 11 wins to 25 losses against the Serbian.

A third commented: ‘This is legitimately insane. I feel like I’m living in an alternate reality rn.’

The Scot retired in August 2024 after competing in doubles with Dan Evans at the Olympics

Djokovic beat Murray in four Australian Open finals, and in 25 of their 36 meetings overall

Dubious of Murray’s losing record against Djokovic, one fan said: ‘Hmmm I seriously wonder what more Andy can bring to Novak’s table at this point, aside from companionship.’

Another reminisced on the early stages of both their careers, noting that, in 2006, Djokovic and Murray partnered in doubles at the Australian Open, both aged 19.

‘Doubles partners to coach and player’, the fan said.

Their rivalry dates back to their teenage years, when they attended training camp together and Murray later won the first matchup between them as juniors.

Only a week older than Djokovic, Murray has maintained respect for his long-time competitor, even posting a tribute to him on social media after he announced his retirement in July.

‘Rivals, doubles partners, friends and lovers? Thanks for the 25 years of competition and good luck for rest of your career,’ the Scot said.

Sharing a video announcement to his social media pages, Djokovic poked fun at Murray’s retirement social media post earlier this year, in which he joked he had ‘never liked’ tennis.

‘He never liked retirement anyway (hands up emoji)’, Djokovic wrote.

Murray called time on his 19-year career this summer, with a final doubles run-out alongside partner Dan Evans at the Olympic Games in Paris.