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Andy Murray talks Djokovic rivalry and what really changed after 2015 Canadian Open final

Originally posted on HITC | By Callum Davies | Last updated Aug 2, 2025 11:04 AM ET

Over the years, Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic have had a relationship that’s often been difficult to define.

They’ve always been rivals—sometimes friendly, sometimes not so much. You could feel it. Over the years, Novak pulled ahead in trophies and stats, sure. But Andy had his moments.

One of them? Montreal, 2015. Djokovic had beaten him eight times in a row. That day, Murray finally broke the streak. It wasn’t easy. But he found a way to win in three sets and take the title. What came after, though, caught attention too.

What Murray said after finally beating Djokovic again

Murray’s 6–4, 4–6, 6–3 win in Canada was big. Not just for him. For British tennis too. Even if Djokovic went on to win the US Open that same summer.

After the match, Murray was asked about their relationship. His answer was honest—refreshingly so.
“Everyone wants there to be tension between us,” he said. “They love stirring things up.”

“It’s tough to stay close when you’re constantly facing each other in huge matches. You’re drained—physically and mentally. And you still need to stay sharp and fight.”

Then he added: “He’s brilliant, isn’t he? He was world number one, unbeaten in Masters that year. Beating him is a proper challenge.”

From rivals to coach: Murray’s surprise turn

Fast-forward nearly a decade, and the storyline takes a twist. Djokovic didn’t just respect Murray—he called him. Not for a match. For help.

Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images

Murray, now retired, shared what happened: “He rang me and asked if I’d think about coaching him. I didn’t expect it, not at all. But it felt right. It’s a rare thing, really.”

Djokovic explained it like this: “We thought about a few names. Then it hit me—I need someone who’s been there. Who gets it. Andy’s won Slams. Been number one. He’s that guy.”

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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