Rafael Nadal reacts to Murray-Djokovic coaching partnership: "Surprised me"

Posted : 23 April 2025

After his retirement, Andy Murray quickly embraced a new role in the tennis world, stepping in as Novak Djokovic's coach ahead of the 2025 season. This came as a surprise to many, including Rafael Nadal, who has opted for a more relaxed lifestyle focusing on golf and leisure since stepping away from tennis. Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, was taken aback by the rapid transition from Murray's playing career to coaching his former rival Djokovic.

Murray, who announced his retirement after the previous year's Olympics, made headlines when he was revealed as Djokovic's new coach in November. While Nadal found this quick shift surprising, he acknowledged that the collaboration between Murray and Djokovic could be a great fit. "It surprised me a bit that, immediately after retiring, Andy wanted to start a project again where he’d be travelling," Nadal shared in an interview with The Telegraph. "But I understand that the project with Novak is an attractive one, and one he would be passionate about."

Nadal also recognized that having one of his greatest competitors, Murray, as a coach could serve as additional motivation for Djokovic. "For Novak to be with one of his biggest rivals – his coach – must give him a certain drive," he added. While Nadal did not expect this new partnership to form so quickly, he expressed optimism, wishing the two well in their venture together. "I think it’s a good combination. I obviously wish them all the best."

Since retiring after the Davis Cup in November, Nadal has been enjoying his time away from tennis, primarily focusing on golf. He has enjoyed a slower pace of life and joked about the possibility of a golf tournament with his former tennis rivals, Djokovic, Murray, and Roger Federer. "It could happen, but they have to get training – I have a bit of an advantage in that," Nadal laughed. "On the tennis court, there wasn’t that much difference between us, but in this, I’m much better than them."

As the French Open approaches next month, Nadal will undoubtedly be watching closely. He won the prestigious Grand Slam a record 14 times in his career, but now, there will be room for new names to emerge, including fellow Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz, who is the defending champion. Nadal is curious to see how the tournament unfolds, though he is no longer a participant.

When asked if he might return to tennis soon, Nadal was clear that he hasn’t yet found the motivation to pick up a racket again. "I haven’t yet found the moment in my routine to have that personal motivation to play again," he explained. "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."

Nadal’s comments reflect a peaceful transition into post-tennis life, where golf and personal fulfillment take precedence over the rigors of competition. Though his competitive days may be behind him, the Spanish legend remains a prominent figure in the sport, with his insights and experiences continuing to influence the next generation of tennis stars.

Rafael Nadal reacts to Murray-Djokovic coaching partnership: "Surprised me"

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