Tim Henman urged Andy Murray to take time to consider his next career move only to see him coach Novak Djokovic within days.
The decision came after a glittering career in which Murray won three major titles. But he was not away from the court for very long as he linked up with former rival Djokovic. Murray started coaching the Serbian star at the Australian Open in January, where he reached the semi-finals. That agreement has continued since then including at Indian Wells and the Miami Open.
But Murray might not have been coaching Djokovic at all had it been for some advice from Henman. Speaking to the Guardian, the now 50-year-old said: “I think coaching is a far bigger commitment in terms of time, in terms of travel, and I’ve had those offers, but it just doesn’t appeal to me.
“And that may change. I would never shut the door on coaching an individual player. I was involved in the ATP Cup, but that was a very specific event. I’m so excited about the Laver Cup because of the event itself, and the best players from Team Europe and the team world going at it. But there’s a finite period. The television work I do is structured.
“It’s around specific events and that balance, for me, is perfect. But that’s horses for courses. Andy didn’t necessarily enjoy the media stuff and always wanted to get into coaching. I advised him to take his time … and the next week, he took a job [with Novak Djokovic]. I’ll say no more.”
Djokovic will certainly be thankful that Murray agreed on his coaching role, having opened up on how he has assisted him. Asked if he has learnt from the two-time Wimbledon champion, he said: “Yes, to some extent.
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“He obviously has a unique perspective on my game. He has played me and all of the current best players in the world and knows everyone well.
“He knows exactly what we need to do tactically – the evolution of my game and what needs to be improved. He has a positive approach and has handled the whole pressure very well as it is a completely different situation from being there as a player.
“He has been terrific with all the other team members and while it was unfortunate the way the Australian Open finished with injury, we had a great run.”
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