Novak Djokovic has appointed Andy Murray to coach him into and through the Australian Open. In a shock development, the two former rivals will work together as Djokovic seeks to win an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam title in Melbourne.

In a statement Djokovic confirmed the news and said he was looking forward to joining up with the man he beat four times in the final down under.

“I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my coach," he said.

"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.”

The Serbian also uploaded a picture of Instagram, which shows him alongside Murray when the pair had only just started out in the professional game. He teased the caption "He never liked retirement anyway," to his 15.6million followers.

Murray, who retired from playing after the 2024 Paris Olympics, 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”.

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