Traditionally, Novak Djokovic has a special night dedicated to him during the AO Opening Week ahead of the Australian Open. On 9th January 2025, Djokovic took on Alexander Zverev in an exhibition match in a packed Rod Laver Arena. Both players put on a good show, with the Serbian winning 7-6 (6). The duo along with Djokovic’s coach Andy Murray then did a short on-court interview with Eurosport Tennis, which was filled with witty and light hearted moments.

The interview commenced with Novak Djokovic expressing exhaustion after a hard-fought match against the World No. 2 Alexander Zverev. The Serbian emphasized the challenge of breaking serve, and also highlighted the significance of playing a match in front of a supportive crowd, noting the importance of such events leading up to the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic praised Melbourne for its fantastic atmosphere during the event. He described the match level as being quite high. Alexander Zverev also expressed his enjoyment of the event. He further commented that he had never experienced something like this- a full Stadium Court, 3 days before the tournament starts.

Alexander Zverev went on to joke on how Djokovic would go on to win 5 more Grand Slam titles while he would still be chasing his first. The German revealed an intriguing plan for having Djokovic as his coach for a year once the Serbian retires. But then Zverev, now 27 also humorously added that perhaps he might as well retire before Djokovic, now 37.

Andy Murray on coaching Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic’s former rival turned coach Andy Murray spoke briefly about how he got this new role. The 3-time Grand Slam champion had announced his retirement after the 2024 Paris Olympics. A few months later in November he got his first first coaching role, partnering with Novak Djokovic.

Andy Murray said that he got on a call and had a long chat with Djokovic who had asked for help. The Scot revealed that he was initially shocked and was obviously not expecting that. Murray then asked his wife about it and remarked that she was really supportive of the idea. He described this as a unique opportunity which he would like to give a go.

Andy Murray had recently missed out on Novak Djokovic’s first tournament of the season at Brisbane International. Murray went to a ski trip with his family during that period. Djokovic remarked that he grew up on the mountains and came from a family of skiers. He further commended his coach’s stability and control while skiing on a very difficult slope.