Andy Murray sent out an apology ahead of the Australian Open.

Andy Murray apologised to the Australian Open crowd during an exhibition match on Thursday (Image: A NIGHT WITH NOVAK/YOUTUBE)

Andy Murray apologised to the Australian Open crowd while taking on Novak Djokovic in an exhibition doubles match on Thursday. The Briton joined forces with Victoria Azarenka, with the duo narrowly losing to Djokovic and Zheng Qinwen at the Rod Laver Arena.

Murray, who is now working as Djokovic’s coach, returned to the court five months after announcing his retirement from tennis.

The showdown formed part of A Night With Novak – a charity event that launched in 2023 – as 15,000 fans packed into the venue to watch the stars in action. And spectators were even able to hear what the players had to say during the match as the four stars wore microphones.

Murray was interviewed on the court ahead of the encounter as he gave his verdict on his return to action.

The 37-year-old explained: “Look I’m dreadful at tennis now. I’ve hardly hit a ball for the last few months, it’s going to be ugly. I need everyone’s support – get behind me, not him, tonight. Please.”

And after Djokovic and Zheng claimed the first game of the match, Murray told the crowd: “Sorry everyone – I told you I was terrible. I wasn’t lying.”

Andy Murray retired from tennis after playing at the Olympic Games last year (Image: GETTY)

The match proved to be an entertaining affair as the players divulged their sentiments to the crowd as the points were being played.

And it was Djokovic and Zheng who managed to clinch the victory on a tiebreak after the first six games were shared.

The Serbian then admitted after the match: “Yeah I’m happy. Obviously the result isn’t important tonight, it’s about having fun and doing it for the right cause.

“And the show up tonight is incredible. The fans are amazing, they respect the sport and they love tennis. And showing up in these huge numbers is very meaningful to all of us.”

Earlier in the evening, Djokovic had gone head-to-head with Alexander Zverev in a singles match, with the German edging the contest following another tiebreak.

And the night ended with a wheelchair doubles match as Djokovic joined forces with Tokito Oda in a clash against Dylan Alcott and Heath Davidson.

Following the charity evening, Murray will be aiming to help Djokovic win a record-extending 25th Grand Slam tournament, with the Australian Open getting underway on Sunday. Djokovic, who has won 10 titles at Melbourne Park, will begin his campaign against American star Nishesh Basavareddy.

Jannik Sinner is the favourite to lift the trophy ahead of Carlos Alcaraz, with Djokovic beginning the tournament as the third favourite after failing to win a Major in 2024.