Novak Djokovic jokingly claims his son Stefan plays 'better' tennis than coach Andy Murray
Tennis legend Novak Djokovic recently took a playful jab at his coach Andy Murray. During a mixed doubles practice session at the Australian Open 2025, Djokovic partnered with Olympic gold medalist Qinwen Zheng. With the duo of Andy Murray and Victoria Azarenka on the other side of the court, the Serb was asked a witty question about bringing in his son Stefan to play.
The 24-time Grand Slam champion is all set to begin his quest for the 11th AO title with a showdown against Nishesh Basavareddy. Besides former on-court rival and current coach Murray by his side, the tennis legend is also accompanied by his wife Jelena and son Stefan.
Eurosport's social media channel shared a video in which Djokovic can be seen getting involved in a playful banter with WTA star Victoria Azarenka. During the practice session, Azarenka asked the Serb to bring his son Stefan to switch sides with coach Andy Murray.
"You wanna substitute him for Andy?" she asked.
Confused with what Azarenka actually demanded, the tennis legend asked, "Who?"
After receiving a confirmation from the Belarusian WTA star, Djokovic couldn't deny asking his son if he wanted to grab this opportunity.
"My son? Yeah, do you wanna play? (asks his son Stefan)," the Serb added.
Stefan appeared to be quite hesitant to come on the court and therefore his dad stepped forward to back him amid the playful debate.
"He's not warmed up! Okay, I think he would do better than Andy," the Serb added.
Novak Djokovic is all set to unleash the hardcourt action at the Australian Open 2025. Despite his disappointing exit at the Brisbane International, the Serb will be bidding to clinch the 25th Major title.
Coach Andy Murray admits to bearing possible emotional outbursts from Novak Djokovic
Andy Murray recently cleared the air of the possible outbursts amid his partnership with Novak Djokovic. The Brit accepted the fact that disagreements could find a way between them and therefore made it clear that he wouldn't be offended by what was yet to arrive.
"I would think that I’d be one of the people that would maybe hopefully understand that side of things. I know it’s not easy out there, and it’s stressful, and at times he’s going to want to vent towards his team and his box. Provided that he’s giving his best effort and trying as hard as he can, I’m absolutely fine with him expressing himself how he wants," Murray said (via The Guardian).
Murray spent 10 days on court with Djokovic during the Serbian player’s pre-season training in Marbella. The Brit has also been helping Djokovic with his training sessions. While he says he has enjoyed working with Djokovic, he made it clear that he’s not there just for fun.