• ATP Tour

Murray appoints Lendl in bid for maiden slam

ESPN staff
December 31, 2011
Andy Murray has confirmed the appointment of Ivan Lendl as his new coach © Getty Images
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Andy Murray has appointed former world No. 1 Ivan Lendl as his full-time coach.

The British No. 1 will begin working with the eight-time grand slam champion with immediate effect as he begins his preparations for the Australian Open.

Murray, who has been without a full-time coach since July 2010, when he parted company with Miles Maclagan, was first linked with Lendl back in March.

Murray had suggested he would not look to appoint a high-profile name, but despite Lendl's lack of coaching experience, Murray is keen to learn from the Czech-born player as he bids to break his grand slam duck.

"It was important to me that any new person joining my team was able to add fresh insight," Murray said. "Ivan's impact on the game is unquestionable and he brings experience and knowledge that few others have, particularly in major tournaments."

Murray, who kicks off the 2012 season against Mikhail Kukushkin on Tuesday, will be looking to go one better at the Australian Open, where he has been the beaten finalist for the last two years.

Lendl came up short in four major finals before he finally clinched his maiden grand slam at the 1984 French Open, and Murray will hope Lendl can help him win his first major in Melbourne next month.

"I am really excited to have the opportunity to work with Andy," said Lendl, who spent 270 weeks as world No. 1. "He is a unique talent and I look forward to trying to help him reach his goals."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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