Andy Murray has given a candid assessment of his brief coaching stint with Novak Djokovic and admitted it was eye-opening and humbling despite limited success on the court.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the former world No. 1 initially joked that he “probably didn’t learn anything”, before he quickly clarified that his experience was actually deeply educational. Murray explained that moving into a coaching role gave him a new perspective on the daily routine and demands of an elite player, especially one operating at Djokovic’s level.

Murray said, “It was interesting to see what their day-to-day looked like compared to what I was doing, and how those things differ. It was really insightful.” He said coaching requires a change in mindset, particularly in how messages are communicated and how players are listened to, which he believes has been shaped by his own experiences off the court.

Learning curve despite semi-final limit

Murray’s tenure began around the Australian OpenBut the partnership ultimately fell short of the title. Djokovic reached the semi-finals at several major events, including the Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon, but was unable to convert those deep runs into trophies. He also crashed out of the US Open at the same stage.

Losses to top contenders such as Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev underlined the challenges Djokovic faced in regaining dominance, even as he won titles at smaller tournaments such as the Geneva Open and Athens Open.

Reflecting on the experience, Murray admitted that working with one of the game’s greatest players also revealed his own areas for improvement. “You’re very busy working with someone that great, so it highlights areas that you probably need to improve on if you want to be a great coach,” he said.

The partnership eventually ended After the Serbian’s poor performance at the French Open last year.

Djokovic’s condition is in danger due to injury concerns

Djokovic’s season has also been disrupted by fitness issuesThe 24-time Grand Slam champion has been struggling with a shoulder problem, which has caused him to miss major tournaments. He recently confirmed that he will not participate in the Madrid Open as his recovery continues.

The Serbian had earlier withdrawn from events in Miami and Monte Carlo, raising concerns over his preparation ahead of Roland Garros, which starts in late May. Despite the setbacks, Djokovic remains optimistic about returning to peak form in time for the clay-court majors, where he will chase a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title.

For his part, Murray is confident in Djokovic’s enduring ability. “Given the level he’s still capable of, does he have another big win? I think he does,” he said, backing his former rival to add another chapter to an already historic career.

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