Novak Djokovic Wins Australian Open Opener with Andy Murray in His Coaching Corner

Novak Djokovic began his quest for an 11th Australian Open title and a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam victory with a comeback win against 19-year-old American Nishesh Basavareddy. The 37-year-old Serb triumphed 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 in his opening-round match at Melbourne Park, marking his first win with three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray in his coaching team.

Having enlisted Murray, his long-time rival, as a coach, Djokovic expressed excitement about the new partnership. “I’m thrilled to have him in my corner. It’s a bit strange having him on my side after over 20 years of competing against each other, but it’s a great experience,” said Djokovic, who is seeded seventh in the tournament.

A Tough Start but a Dominant Finish

Djokovic struggled early, making uncharacteristic errors and losing the first set to the confident teenager. Basavareddy, who idolizes Djokovic, showed composure and secured an early break to claim the opening set. The American, coached at Stanford University by Paul Goldstein—Djokovic’s first-round opponent in the 2006 Australian Open—showed no signs of nerves in the early exchanges.

However, as the match progressed, fatigue and cramping set in for Basavareddy. Djokovic, in contrast, found his rhythm, reduced errors, and dominated the remaining sets. The Serb’s powerful baseline game and precise shot-making proved too much for the young challenger.

During the match, Murray provided feedback from Djokovic’s coaching box, offering tactical advice on his backhand before the fourth set. Djokovic cruised through the final set to secure victory and advance to the second round, where he will face Portugal’s Jaime Faria.

A New Chapter for Murray and Djokovic

Murray, who retired from professional tennis in 2024, joined Djokovic’s coaching team in November. The partnership is a surprising yet intriguing collaboration between two players who contested four Australian Open finals, all won by Djokovic.

Murray described Djokovic as “the best tennis player of all time” and expressed excitement about helping him pursue even greater achievements. “If he can continue winning Slams at 38 or 39 and beat players like Alcaraz and Sinner, he could legitimately claim to be the greatest athlete of all time,” said Murray.

Djokovic’s Pursuit of History

With this win, Djokovic’s journey toward cementing his legacy continues. The 24-time Grand Slam champion is aiming to surpass Margaret Court’s all-time record and further solidify his place in tennis history.

As the Australian Open unfolds, all eyes will be on Djokovic and his team, now bolstered by Murray’s insights, as they navigate the path to more glory. For Djokovic, this tournament represents not just another opportunity to extend his dominance but also a chance to redefine the boundaries of athletic excellence.