“I’m thrilled to have one of my biggest rivals on the same side of the net with me, this time as my coach,” Djokovic said Murray said: “I am very excited about this and look forward to being on the same side of the net for a change” BELGRADE: Novak Djokovic announced on Saturday that his retired long-time rival Andy Murray is joining the 24-time Grand Slam-winning player’s coaching team, starting at the Australian Open in January. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport “I’m thrilled to have one of my biggest rivals on the same side of the net with me, this time as my coach. I look forward to starting the season with Andy and having him by my side in Melbourne, where we’ve shared many exceptional moments throughout our careers,” Djokovic said in a statement. Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion who retired from competitive tennis in August, said: “I am very excited about this and look forward to being on the same side of the net for a change. “I’m also grateful for the opportunity to help him achieve his goals for the upcoming year.” Djokovic posted a video on X of him and Murray during the Scotsman’s playing career, jokingly titled: “He never liked retirement anyway.” The 37-year-old Serb has won the Australian Open a record 10 times, defeating Murray in four finals. Djokovic failed to win a Grand Slam in 2024 and has slipped to seventh in the world, although he did land the Olympic singles title in Paris.