Tim Henman had a similar reaction to most when it was announced that Andy Murray would be coaching Novak Djokovic.
The 37-year-old retired from tennis after the Paris Olympics in August and just three months later, he was confirmed to be back on tour in a new role.
His first coaching assignment is none other than the 24-time Grand Slam champion who has been without a full-time coach since parting ways with Goran Ivanisevic in March.
Murray and Djokovic are set to work together at least until the conclusion of January’s Australian Open and fans are keen to see how their working relationship will unfold.
What does Tim Henman think of Andy Murray coaching Novak Djokovic?
The tennis world was still reeling from the retirement of Rafael Nadal after Spain were eliminated from the Davis Cup finals.
But less than a week later, arguably the shock of the year took place when Murray was announced as Djokovic’s new coach.
The general consensus is it is smart move for the Olympic champion to have his former rival in his box, and though the move surprised him, Tim Henman agrees.
“I was a little bit surprised from Andy’s point of view from having just retired in August he is going to be back on tour. It will be interesting to see how long that partnership lasts for” he told Sky Sports.
“I am guessing it’s just the off season and the Australian Open and then probably see how it goes from there. I think from Djokovic’s point of view it’s probably a smart move.
“Andy knows all the opponents Djokovic is going to be up against. Andy has always been a great tactician and been very good strategically so it’s another interesting element to watch out for.”
How does Andy Murray feel about his retirement?
Murray is not only focused on coaching Djokovic in Australia but he took a recent trip to Melbourne to film a television advert, according to the Herald Sun.
The publication reported that the former World number one will play an action man who avoids those trying to catch him but by jumping through the window of a restaurant.
While shooting the advert, Murray admitted how much being back in the city where the Australian Open is held made him miss tennis more.
“I stopped playing tennis a few months ago but being back, it’s the first time I’ve missed playing tennis again,” he said.
“I always loved being able to play in the tournament. It’s a brilliant time of year and all the players are pumped to compete.”
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
