Novak Djokovic stands as the last active member of the iconic “Big Three” in professional tennis. While Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal remain away from the sport following their respective retirements in 2022 and 2024, Andy Murray has taken a different path. After retiring in 2024, the former Wimbledon champion accepted an offer to coach Djokovic at the start of 2025.
Murray retired following his participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics and quickly transitioned to his new role as Djokovic’s coach in November of the same year. Their collaboration began at the Australian Open, where Djokovic reached the semifinals but was forced to retire against Alexander Zverev due to injury.
Murray’s swift move from player to coach raised eyebrows in the tennis world, including Nadal’s. However, Nadal acknowledged the allure of working alongside Djokovic.
“It surprised me a bit that, immediately after retiring, Andy wanted to start a project again where he’d be traveling,” Nadal said in an interview with The Telegraph. “But I understand that the project to be with Novak is an attractive one, and one he would be passionate about”.
Novak Djokovic of Serbia and his coach Andy Murray working on his serve during a practice session at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Nadal also reflected on the dynamic of having a former rival in a coaching role. “Also, I understand for Novak to be with one of his rivals – one of his biggest rivals – as his coach must give him motivation,” he continued. “So I think it’s a good combination. I obviously wish them all the best. I think, in the end, Andy is a real tennis enthusiast and to have this opportunity, he’s taken it”.
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Unlike Murray and Federer, who have shown varying levels of interest in staying connected to the sport, Nadal opened up on why he doesn’t miss tennis. Federer recently hinted at a desire to participate in exhibition matches, but Nadal remains content away from the game.
“I haven’t yet found the moment in my routine to have that personal motivation to play again,” said the 22-time Grand Slam champion. “Probably in the future, if I feel a personal reason to do it, for an exhibition match or something like that. Then I’ll have that motivation. But for now, that moment hasn’t come yet”.
