Explained: Why Novak Djokovic made emotional gesture at Andy Murray after beating Alcaraz at the Australian Open
Novak Djokovic expressed deep gratitude towards his coach, Andy Murray, following his thrilling Australian Open quarter-final victory over Carlos Alcaraz. After securing a 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 win against the 21-year-old Spaniard, Djokovic described the triumph as a “huge win” for his partnership with Murray, praising the commitment the Brit has shown since joining his team.
The 37-year-old Serbian, aiming for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title, delivered one of his best performances in recent years on Rod Laver Arena. After the match, Djokovic celebrated the victory by walking over to Murray’s coaching area, roaring with excitement, and sharing an embrace with his former rival.
This marks Djokovic’s first tournament with Murray in his corner after the pair’s unexpected collaboration was announced in November. During his post-match press conference, Djokovic explained the emotional gesture: “I felt like doing it at the end of the match. I feel more and more connected with Andy every day. We face challenges together that people don’t see.”
He continued, “We try to make the most out of every day, grow together, and he’s been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be. It was a gesture of appreciation and respect for him, for being there, for accepting to work with me, and for supporting me and the whole team.”
Djokovic emphasized the significance of the win, saying, “This was a huge win for all of us — including Andy and myself for the relationship.”
The two have a long history, with Djokovic holding a 25-11 advantage in their 36 career encounters. Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion and former world No. 1, is preparing to retire after the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Djokovic now looks ahead to his semi-final match against world No. 2 Alexander Zverev on Friday.
This article is so moving, expressing deep and long-term acquaintaince of the two great sportsmen, their being well-experienced, dedicated to tennis and also points to their further readiness to jointly even more contribute to this sport. They are living legends with great hearts, indeed. The whole world is grateful to them.
Well-cultured, working with all his heart, training since he was his son’s age – so balanced and relentless in all possible shots and above all grateful to God and to all good-intentioned sportsmen- that’s Djokovic.