Tim Henman is excited to find out if Novak Djokovic continues his furious outbursts at his box when Andy Murray becomes his coach. The tennis icons will unite next year as Djokovic seeks to overcome a tough 2024.
The Serb surprisingly announced Murray’s new coach following the British star’s retirement last summer. Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, had wanted to explore coaching opportunities, but he might not have suspected one this big would arrive so soon.
Djokovic was known for bellowing at his box when things were not going his way. He parted ways with long-term mentor Goran Ivanisevic earlier this year. Henman joked that he wants to see Djokovic struggle to see if he screams at Murray in the same way.
“Who’s going to shout at who? I’m definitely intrigued,” the former British player told Eurosport. “That’s why I want to see Djokovic struggle a little bit in those early matches so that there’s a bit of tension, a bit of adversity, hopefully a bit of shouting and screaming at the box.
“And we can see how Andy Murray deals with it being on the receiving end. But it’s going to be fun to watch.”
Djokovic says he felt compelled to appoint Murray as the two-time Wimbledon champion had similar experiences to him. They are both multi-Grand Slam winners and spent long periods as the World No. 1. It is an intriguing match-up between two vastly experienced champions.
However, Henman was surprised by Murray’s decision to accept the offer. Although he feels it could be good partnership, particularly due to the new coach’s tactical insight.
“Andy’s decision to coach Djokovic certainly took me by surprise,” he added. “When I saw it on the internet, I had to check the date, whether it was an April Fools [joke].
“But no, I think it’s a smart move from Djokovic, because Andy’s played against all those opponents that Djokovic is going to be up against. Andy’s always been a great tactician, so I’m sure that fresh input can motivate Djokovic.
“And from Andy’s point of view, having just retired in August, I was surprised that he wants to get back on the road that quickly. But only time will tell how the relationship evolves.”
Djokovic’s first major outing will come at the Australian Open in January. He will be hoping to win the tournament for the 11th time. He failed to win one of the four Grand Slams last year for the first time since 2017.
