Andy Murray says he could not turn down the “unique opportunity” to coach his long-time rival Novak Djokovic at the upcoming Australian Open.
Speaking for the first time about the partnership, Murray revealed he had the unexpected conversation with Djokovic during a phone call in his car – shortly after telling a golfing partner he had no desire to move into coaching yet.
The 37-year-old Briton only retired from playing professionally in August.
After discussing the proposal with his family, Murray agreed to help Djokovic on a trial basis in Melbourne.
Serbia’s Djokovic is aiming to win a record-extending 11th Australian Open title, as well as a 25th major which would put him clear of Australia’s Margaret Court in terms of all-time victories.
“[Novak] asked if I would be interested in helping, which I obviously wasn’t expecting,” said Murray.
“I said to him: ‘Look, I need to think about it and talk to my family.’
“So I spoke to them, and after a couple of days, I thought that it was a pretty unique opportunity and experience.
“I thought it would be a good idea to try it.”