Novak Djokovic had a largely unsuccesful year in 2024, but the Serbian hopes to turn a new page ahead of 2025. Djokovic has been cautious with his calendar for much of his career, playing only those events he deemed necessary. However, with Andy Murray by his side, he says he plans on playing more tennis than he played last year.

Djokovic said the Brit brought new enthusiasm and motivation to the Djokovic camp, momentum which the Serbian hopes to use to get back to winning ways after a largely ineffective 2024 campaign. He said (via BBC),

“I’m planning to play a few more tournaments than I did last season. Hopefully the level is also going to go up and as a consequence I’ll be able to hopefully win a few tournaments and get my ranking higher.”

Time will tell whether Djokovic is able to see these plans through, but he seems to be very motivated after putting forward a year which he is sure to be disappointed by.

“I look forward to it, I really do” – Novak Djokovic on working with coach Andy Murray

Novak Djokovic hired Andy Murray as his coach last month, in a shock announcement. The Serbian this week spoke about what he looks forward to in the partnership.

Djokovic spoke glowingly about Murray. He said that as a player who retired only a couple of months ago, Murray knows the tennis landscape quite well. He added that Murray knew his game verty well to, as they were rivals till recently. Djokovic said,

“He has a unique perspective on my game as one of the greatest rivals I’ve had. He knows the pros and cons of my game. He played until recently on the tour, so he knows all the other best players currently in the world, the youngsters, and the weaknesses and strengths in their game. I look forward to it, I really do.”

He also spoke about Murray’s “champion mentality,” saying,

“I think he’s bringing a fresh look to my game and I’ll be able to benefit from that, no doubt, on the court. But also that champion mentality he has, I’m sure we’ll match very well.”

Andy Murray, a former World No. 1, won 46 titles in his career, including three Grand Slam titles. He retired from the sport after representing his nation at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The first event Djokovic will play under Murray is the Brisbane International, where he’s the top seed.