ATP
Shout-out to coach Murray as Djokovic starts with a win
Novak Djokovic started the 2025 season in Australia without new coach Andy Murray onside, earning a 6-3, 6-3 win over Ricky Hijikata at the Brisbane International on Tuesday.
The New Year’s Eve opening victory came with former ATP rival Murray spending a family skiing holiday in Europe.
The pair are due to unite soon, with the Scot set to coach the 24-time Grand Slam winner at the Australian Open starting in less than a fortnight.
While the Serb had his own family on board at the tournament, the same could not be said about his new mentor.
“Andy is on a family ski trip at the moment – I just hope he doesn’t get injured,” Djokovic joked after his win in 74 minutes.
“We spoke before the match; I’m excited to have him in my corner.
“For 20 years he’s been across the net from me, this is the first time we are on the same side.
“It should be fun in Melbourne.”
Djokovic won the Brisbane title in 2007 but has not played in Queensland since 2009.
He is using the week to prepare for an assault on a record 11th Australian Open trophy.