The World No.2 Novak Djokovic began preparation for his quest to win a record-extending 11th Australian Open triumph at Melbourne Park on Monday, January 7. The 37-year-old was training under the watchful eye of his former rival-turned-coach Andy Murray at Rod Laver Arena.

Novak Djokovic said he still feels “a bit of trauma” when he travels to Australia , stemming from his deportation in 2022 because he was not vaccinated against COVID-19.

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray have started their on-court preparations at the Australian Open ahead of the Serbian’s bid for a 25th grand slam title this month. Djokovic has said former rival Murray will bring a “fresh look” and “unique perspective” as his coach as he seeks to win a record-exending 11th Australian Open.

After the COVID restrictions were relaxed, Djokovic returned to the Australian Open in 2023 and won his record 10th title at Melbourne Park.

Novak Djokovic and new coach Andy Murray have been seen practising together for the first time ahead of the start of the Australian Open on Sunday.

Novak Djokovic and new coach Andy Murray practise together in Melbourne for the first time before the start of the Australian Open on Sunday.

Sir Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic were pictured working together for the first time on Tuesday morning, five days before the start of the Australian Open.

Novak Djokovic has brought Andy Murray on board as his new coach, with the pair focusing on fine-tuning the Serbian's game to compete with tennis's rising stars. The 24-time Grand Slam champion is determined to keep pace with younger rivals like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner,