Djokovic made this choice since Murray, who is his official coach, will not be available for the tournament. Murray’s absence is not a breach of contract, as he was not obligated to attend this event. However, the three-time Grand Slam champion is expected to resume his coaching role at the end of the month, prior to the Madrid Open.
Novak Djokovic has added his brother Marko to his coaching staff
In the interim, Marko will take on the coaching responsibilities, and Djokovic expressed that having him around provides emotional support.
“I’m not quite sure where Murray is,” Djokovic joked.
“I talked to him about four or five days back; he was at home, occupied with family, and I believe he was focusing on improving his golf swing, which is his main concern this week.”
“It’s nice for me to have my brother Marko here; it adds a different emotional dimension, and since I don’t see him often, it’s wonderful to spend time together on the road.”
As the world No. 5, Djokovic is aiming for his 100th ATP title in Monte Carlo after his defeat to Czech player Jakub Mensik at the Miami Open.
During the final against the young talent, Djokovic appeared to struggle with an eye issue, but he clarified that it was merely a “minor viral infection.”
“It began on the day of the semifinals in Miami, and I faced challenges with it during the final, but it’s getting better,” he mentioned.
“I’m pleased to have found joy on the court in Miami and to feel at my best performance level. It’s primarily about gaining as much match practice as I can and aiming to peak toward the conclusion of the clay season.”
Despite receiving a first-round bye at the Monte Carlo Masters, Djokovic will encounter formidable competition from top players such as Alexander Zverev, Carlos Alcaraz, Jack Draper, and Alex de Minaur, all of whom are competing in the tournament.