Andy Murray has been busy since retiring at the Olympics four months ago, turning his attention to golf before being lured back to the tennis tour.
The former No. 1 has signed up to be Novak Djokovic’s new coach, agreeing to work with his old rival during the off-season and Australian Open.
But Murray has now landed another job Down Under, taking on a whole new role before starting Djokovic’s training block.
A five-time finalist at the Australian Open, Murray is no stranger to Melbourne. And he was back in the city to film a TV advert.
According to the Herald Sun, the three-time Major winner will step into the role of an action man who is being chased through Melbourne. He eventually loses them by diving through the window of a Chinatown restaurant in a dramatic conclusion.
A snap shared by photographer Michael Klein showed Murray all kitted out for the role, with a fake cut on his face while his signature Castore outfit was covered in mud.
“I’m seeing a different Melbourne this time. I’ve not been around some of these parts before and it’s been good fun,” Murray said while shooting the ad.
It’s a big shoot. I’ve never done anything like this before because I never had the time. But it’s fun to do something like this.”
Being back in Melbourne, the home of the Aussie Open, also made Murray miss competing. He added: “I stopped playing tennis a few months ago but being back, it’s actually the first time I’ve missed playing tennis again.
“I always loved being able to play in the tournament. It’s a brilliant time of year and all the players are pumped to compete.”
While he won’t be back as a player, the 37-year-old will return to Melbourne Park in January as Djokovic’s coach. The Serb is bidding to win a record 25th Grand Slam title and his 11th at the Australian Open.
Djokovic parted with his long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic in March and had not hired a replacement since. But he has now turned to Murray, the man he faced at all four Grand Slam tournaments.
Announcing the news, the current world No. 7 said: “I am excited to have one of my greatest rivals on the same side of the net, as my coach.
“Looking forward to start of the season and competing in Australia alongside Andy with whom I have shared many exceptional moments on the Australian soil.”
Murray added: “I’m really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him to achieve his goals.
