Jelena and Novak Djokovic. (Image: Getty)
It seems the shock news that through to the caught everyone off guard, including the Serbian’s wife. In a stunning development, it was confirmed on Saturday afternoon that the two former players would be working together both in the off-season and the first Grand Slam of 2025.
Murray, 37, retired from playing following the 2024 , and has since regularly spoken about his extra family time.
And his decision to help his fellow member of the fabled ‘big four’ was met with surprise by fans online, not least of all Jelena Djokovic.
As well as an official statement, took to to post a video of the two rivals together over the years. It included footage of their six Grand Slam final meetings, four of which came in Melbourne and were all won by Djokovic, and the caption: “He never liked retirement anyway.”
But while a number of his 16.5million followers reacted with euphoria and simple emojis, Jelena took a different tact. “Anyone thought it was a retirement video?” she asked.
Also 37, Djokovic will be chasing a record-extending 11th Australian Open title in January. He is also one shy of 25 Grand Slam titles, which would elevate him above Margaret Court.
Djokovic and Murray will work together until the end of the Australian Open. (Image: Getty)
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However, he’s constantly reiterated his desire to continue playing, arguing he is still capable of competing at the top level. After to last month, he insisted his dedication to the sport remained as strong as ever.
“My main motivation comes from love and passion for the sport, and also the desire to keep competing,” he said. “These are the kind of matches and challenges that I still strive for, to be in a position to play against the best players in the world on the biggest stage, in the finals of some of the biggest tournaments in the world.”
And his wife seemingly knows her initial reaction was a wishful one. After Djokovic he craved in Paris this summer, she banished any thoughts he would soon be back in the family home full-time. “I know for sure that he will not stop here,” she told La Nacion.
“I was in the stands crying with happiness, wondering what would be next. Olympic gold was a very difficult goal to achieve, it took him a long time, but I know for sure, I’m telling you, that he will not stop here.”
Like his partner though, joining with was a development that few fans or pundits saw coming. After in March, the icon has opted not to appoint a full-time replacement.