Djokovic and Murray end player-coach relationship
The split comes after six months together, in which Djokovic’s form has been inconsistent and his motivation a struggle
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The partnership between Novak Djokovic and coach Andy Murray is no more.
The pair announced their decision to split on Tuesday after just under six months together, a partnership which brought some success but also saw Djokovic experience a slump in form.
“Thank you, coach Andy, for all the hard work, fun & support over last six months on & off the court, really enjoyed deepening our friendship together,” Djokovic said in a statement, while Murray echoed his former rival’s sentiments.
“Thanks to Novak for the unbelievable opportunity to work together and thanks to his team for all their hard work over the past six months,” Murray said. “I wish Novak all the best for the rest of the season.”
Decision not a surprise
Djokovic sprung a big surprise when he announced at the end of last year that the pair would be working together, Murray’s first foray as a coach after his retirement from the sport last summer.
A run to the semi-finals at the Australian Open offered promise and reaching the Miami final showed Djokovic’s game is still there but since then, early losses in Monte-Carlo and Madrid have left the Serbian searching for top form heading into this month’s French Open.
Djokovic has also been open about his struggles with motivation, reiterating that his focus is only on Grand Slams, where he needs one more title to win his 25th major. The 37-year-old currently shares the all-time record with Margaret Court, with 24.
