Hiring Andy Murray as his coach came naturally for Novak Djokovic. On a trip to Argentina to play in a farewell match for Juan Martín del Potro, the Serbian explained why he chose his former rival after being without a coach for six months.

Andy Murray ’s decision to become Novak Djokovic ’s coach rocked the tennis world. The Brit only retired four months ago and is now stepping up to mentor arguably his biggest rival. Even one of Murray’s ex-coaches, Mark Petchey, was “surprised” by the news.

Novak and Andy fought for the year-end no. 1 honor in 2016 until the final match. Murray defeated Djokovic in the ATP Finals title clash, securing his only year-end no. 1 season. Both players entered the ATP 250 event in Doha at the beginning of 2017 and reached the final.