Sir Andy Murray, the three-time Grand Slam champion and five-time Queen's Club men's singles titleholder, has left the door open for a return to coaching despite his recent short-lived partnership with former world number one Novak Djokovic ending after just four tournaments last month. Speaking at Queen's Club in London on Monday, June 9, 2025, Murray was present for the official inauguration of the centre court, now named the Andy Murray Arena, ahead of the venue's first WTA 500 event in over half a century.
Murray, who retired from professional tennis following the 2024 Olympics, linked up with Djokovic in November 2024 in what was seen as a unique coaching opportunity. Despite the pair parting ways in May 2025, the 38-year-old Scotsman told BBC Sport that he would consider stepping back into a coaching role at some point in the future, though not immediately.
"I would do it again at some stage. I don’t think that will happen immediately," Murray said. "I wasn’t planning on going into coaching as soon as I finished playing but it was a pretty unique opportunity. It was a chance to learn from one of the best athletes of all time. It was a brilliant opportunity for me. We got to spend some really nice moments away from the court. Results weren’t as we wanted but we gave it a go." His remarks reflect a candid and thoughtful approach to his post-playing career, highlighting the value he found in the experience despite the results not meeting expectations.
At the event, Murray also embraced a lighter moment, joking about his current playing level. "My tennis is diabolical, apologies for what you are about to witness," he quipped before joining a ceremonial doubles rally with 10-year-old Gloria against Olympic silver medallist Laura Robson and 7-year-old Jay. This playful exchange underscored how much Murray has missed being on the grass courts, a surface where he has enjoyed immense success.
"I’ve obviously missed being out here," Murray admitted. "It’s the first time, obviously, not being involved in a grass court season for a while, but I’ve got a new life now and I’m enjoying being away from the sport a little bit." His transition away from competitive tennis appears balanced with a fondness for the sport and an openness to new roles within it.
Murray's connection to Queen's Club runs deep. He first competed in the main draw there as an 18-year-old and played his final tournament there during the 2024 season before retiring in Paris. The venue is also where he won his first ATP Tour match, marking it as his most successful event. In addition to his singles triumphs, Murray claimed the doubles trophy at Queen’s in 2019 alongside Feliciano Lopez.
Adding a personal touch to the occasion, Murray revealed that he was coached at the Queen’s Club as a 12 and 13-year-old by Russian Olga Morozova, who was the last woman to win the ladies' singles title there in 1973. This historical link adds a rich layer to the significance of the venue and its new chapter hosting women’s tennis.
On the return of women’s tennis to Queen’s Club after a 52-year hiatus, Murray expressed enthusiasm and support. "I think it’s brilliant," he said. "This court has had many great matches on it. I think it’s a great chance for women to showcase themselves out there." The new WTA 500 event marks a significant moment for the venue and the sport, highlighting the growing prominence of women's tennis on prestigious stages.
Reflecting on the honour of having the centre court named after him, Murray conveyed his gratitude. "I’m very grateful and thankful for whoever it was who decided to name the stadium this way. I hope there’s lots of great matches and you all enjoy the tennis." This gesture cements his legacy at Queen’s Club and celebrates his enduring impact on British tennis.
As the Andy Murray Arena prepares to host its inaugural WTA 500 tournament, the excitement around the event is palpable. The return of women’s tennis to this historic venue after more than five decades not only revitalizes the sport locally but also offers a platform for emerging and established female players to shine.
Murray’s openness to future coaching opportunities, combined with his ongoing engagement with the sport, suggests that while his playing days may be behind him, his influence on tennis is far from over. Whether as a mentor, coach, or ambassador, the former world number one continues to contribute to the sport’s vibrant landscape.
For now, the focus turns to the new chapter unfolding at Queen’s Club, where history and the future of tennis converge under the banner of the Andy Murray Arena.
