How Murray was tempted back to - and would he ever do a Serena?

New Delhi, India Jun 21, 2026 ALN: Andy Murray has been in the Centre Court coaching box once before.

Murray famously clambered up to the stands - using the canvas roof of a commentary booth as a leg up - to celebrate with his team in 2013 after ending Britain's 77-year wait for a Wimbledon men's champion. This moment marked a significant milestone not just in his career but also in British history, as Murray became the first British man to win the Wimbledon singles title since Fred Perry in 1936. His emotional victory was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and resilience, and it solidified his status as one of the greats in the .

Next week, Murray could be back in those seats shouting down instructions to fellow Briton Jack Draper, having joined his coaching team for the grass-court season. This unexpected turn of events has generated considerable interest in the community, particularly given Murray's status as a former world number one and three-time Grand Slam champion. His decision to coach Draper not only reflects his commitment to nurturing the next generation of British talent but also showcases his enduring passion for the .

How Draper call changed Murray's mind

It never felt as though Murray would be away from coaching for long - but his planned return to the All England Club with Draper this summer is still a surprise. The 39-year-old had been enjoying life outside of in the 12 months since he stopped coaching old rival Novak Djokovic, spending time with wife Kim and their four children, as well as honing his golf game and diversifying his business interests. His time away from the rigors of professional allowed him to explore new avenues and focus on family life, which he had often put on hold during his playing career.

In April, Murray said he was not ready to return to coaching. A month later, Draper announced he had brought his childhood idol into his team. This swift change in circumstances raises questions about what prompted Murray to accept the coaching role. The Scot has long been an informal mentor to the 24-year-old on and off the court - who could forget his role of grumpy driver as Draper sang in their car journey home, external from a Davis Cup win in 2023 - but the timing of their partnership was unexpected. Their relationship is rooted in mutual respect and admiration, which likely made the transition into a formal coaching role more appealing for Murray.

So what changed for Murray? "After I stopped working with Novak, I had a number of opportunities to coach again," he explained. "I had no interest in being on the road and away from my family. It wasn't that I disliked coaching - I just didn't enjoy it more than I do being at home with my family. When Jack asked me, I thought about it, spoke to my wife, and told Jack that I'd love to help him." This candid reflection reveals Murray's priorities and highlights the importance of family in his life after retirement.

Murray is essentially fulfilling the role of a 'super-coach' - similar to the dynamic he had with eight-time major champion Ivan Lendl, who helped him win his three Grand Slam titles. The influence of a seasoned coach like Murray on Draper's development could be invaluable, as he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge from his own illustrious career. Over the past few weeks, Draper and Murray have been working on the practice courts at the National Centre in London as Draper recovers from more fitness problems. The partnership could serve as a turning point for Draper, who has faced a challenging period in his career due to injuries.

Former world number four Draper has lost his place at the top of the men's game after a range of injuries over the past year, but starts his latest comeback at Eastbourne this week in a bid to prove his fitness for Wimbledon. Murray - who also experienced physical issues in the first part of his career - hopes the partnership will be a long-term venture. "I think Jack's a brilliant player. There is no doubt that when he gets back on the court he will perform well and win matches at the highest level," Murray said. "But right now the focus is on trying to get him back competing consistently again." This statement underscores the importance of patience and perseverance in the face of adversity, qualities that both players have exhibited throughout their careers.

Why Murray wasn't surprised by Serena comeback

Wimbledon will also see the return of the great Serena Williams to the Grand Slam stage. Murray says he is not "too surprised" the American superstar has returned - initially in doubles but with the door left ajar for singles - after a conversation between the pair at last year's Miami Open. Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, has been a dominant force in women's for decades, and her return to competition is eagerly anticipated by fans and players alike.

"She asked if I missed playing. I was like, 'not at all, to be honest'," said Murray, who memorably played alongside Williams in the 2019 Wimbledon mixed doubles. Their partnership was a unique blend of talent and charisma, showcasing the camaraderie that can exist between players from different circuits. "She said, 'yes, I miss it every single day. I absolutely loved competing, love playing. If I could, I'd be back out there again.'" This exchange highlights the deep passion that both athletes share for the , even as they navigate the challenges that come with competing at the highest level.

Could Murray see himself making a sensational comeback aged 44? "As much as I would love to, I don't think I'd physically be capable of doing that," he smiled. "I haven't missed the game enough yet to want to get on the court and even hit balls. I don't mind hitting the occasional ball if it's required on the practice court, but I don't think 44-year-old me will be competing." His self-awareness and understanding of his physical limitations reflect a mature perspective, allowing him to embrace his new role in the without the pressure of trying to relive his competitive past.

How Murray is filling the void of playing

It is not surprising to hear Murray has not sat around with his feet up. Those who know him well - or covered his playing career for many years - will describe him as a curious person who strives to do everything to the best of his ability. His drive and determination are evident in his current pursuits, as he seeks to find fulfillment outside of competitive .

Murray spends hours on the golf course in his mission to become a scratch player and has dipped his toe into padel. Golf has become a popular pastime for many athletes seeking a new challenge, and for Murray, it represents an opportunity to engage in a that offers both competition and relaxation. He has also been helping his six-year-old son play chess, demonstrating his commitment to being an active and involved parent. Recently there have been late nights watching Scotland at the men's World Cup, while Murray gleefully collected an NBA Fantasy debt owed by doubles player Mate Pavic when they bumped into each other at Queen's. These anecdotes provide a glimpse into Murray's life beyond , showcasing his interests and the joy he finds in everyday moments.

Outside of , Murray and Kim continue to be hands-on in running their plush hotel near his hometown of Dunblane. The hotel, which has become a beloved establishment in the area, reflects Murray's entrepreneurial spirit and desire to contribute to his community. "The advice I was given when I finished was to just try lots of new things because, as athletes, we just do one thing," Murray added. "My whole life - since I was 14 or 15 - was wrapped up in and that's all I knew. I didn't love doing stuff outside of because I felt like it was distracting me from the work. So I've tried to do different stuff, see whether I like it and if I'm good at it." This exploration of new interests signifies a healthy transition from his identity as a professional athlete to a multifaceted individual, embracing the opportunities that life after has to offer.