‘I was shocked, I was obviously not expecting that when he called,’ Andy Murray says of Novak Djokovic’s offer to become his coach

A simple phone call sealed the deal for tennis legend Andy Murray to become Novak Djokovic’s coach.

A simple phone call sealed the deal for tennis legend Andy Murray to agree coaching Novak Djokovic.

Joking that Djokovic was “single-handedly responsible” for him never winning an Australian Open title, Murray explained that it was an offer too good to refuse.

“We exchanged a few messages, got on a call and we had a long chat,’’ Murray said.

“Novak asked me to help him, I was shocked, I was obviously not expecting that when he called. I said look, I’m going to have to ask my wife and she was really supportive of it.

Andy Murray with Novak Djokovic at a practice session on Thursday. Picture: Getty

“It’s a pretty unique opportunity and we thought we’d give it a go and see if I can help.”

The pair played mixed doubles against each other during Djokovic’s gold medal-themed A Night with Novak on Thursday night at a packed Rod Laver Arena.

Djokovic said tongue in cheek that he’d begged Murray.

“The way it happened is that I begged him, I said ‘Andy please be my coach’,’’ he said.

“We agreed and we spent a good eight, nine days of preparation in December and then he advised me he’s going to have a family first skiing trip. I was worried, (thinking) please Andy come in one piece to Australia.”

Murray said he was rusty with a racquet having enjoyed the months since his retirement.

“Novak is not just one of the best tennis players of all time, he’s one of the best athletes of all time,’’ he said.

“I expected him to be an extremely hard worker, very diligent, always looking to improve. I’m looking forward to competing.”

Also taking part in Novak’s night, which headlined day four of AO Opening Week, presented by the Herald Sun, were Olympic and Paralympic tennis champions Qinwen Zheng, Alexander Zverev, Andy Murray, Victoria Azarenka, Tokito Oda, Dylan Alcott and Heath Davidson.