Novak Djokovic has confirmed that British tennis legend Andy Murray is to become his new coach.
It marks Murray's next step in tennis after retiring from his playing career earlier this year. The Scot brought an end to career that saw Wimbledon glory and Olympic gold and now he is set to help the 37-year-old Djokovic, who denied him the opportunity of more success.
Murray will assist Djokovic throughout the offseason and at the Australian Open as the Serbian looks to claim an 11th title Down Under. Murray was a five-time finalist in the competition and on four of those occasions lost against Djokovic.
"He never liked retirement anyway," commented Djokovic when publishing a video on social media to confirm the news.
Speaking over a highlight reel of moments between the duo, Djokovic announced his latest appointment. "We played each other since we were boys," he said.
"Twenty-five years of being rivals, of pushing each other beyond our limits. We had some of the most epic battles in our sport. They called us gamechangers, risk-takers, history-makers. I thought our story may be over. Turns out it has one final chapter. It's time for one of my toughest opponents to step into my corner. Welcome on board coach Andy Murray."
Following the announcement, Murray confirmed his role. “I’m going to be joining Novak’s team in the off season, helping him to prepare for the Australian Open," he said.
"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".
There were more kind words from Djokovic too. “I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my Coach," he added.
"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."
Murray played his final match of professional tennis during last summer's Paris Olympics. The two-time gold medalist fell to defeat in the doubles competiton to the United States, alongside partner Dan Evans in the quarter-finals.
Speaking following his final outing, Murray acknowledged he was ready to call time on his career. "Obviously it was emotional because it's the last time I will play a competitive match," he said.
"But I am genuinely happy just now. I'm happy with how it finished. I'm glad I got to go out here at the Olympics and finish on my terms because at times in the last few years that wasn't a certainty."
Djokovic meanwhile tasted singles glory at the Games for the first time when he defeated Carlos Alcaraz. The Spaniard had previously defeated Djokovic in the Wimbledon final.