Andy Murray branded ‘pure class’ for consoling Carlos Alcaraz after loss to Novak Djokovic

Andy Murray has been labelled ‘pure class’ for consoling Carlos Alcaraz after Tuesday’s Australian Open quarter-final defeat to Novak Djokovic.

Murray is currently working as part of Djokovic’s coaching team at Melbourne Park – but has always spoken highly of the young Spanish star.

In March, British icon Murray posted on social media that watching the Wimbledon and French Open champion play tennis makes him ‘smile’.

Murray made sure to pay respect to Alcaraz after helping Djokovic secure a 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4 win at Rod Laver Arena, with the footage going viral online.

The former world No.1 was seen approaching a dejected Alcaraz in the gym after the match, with the 21-year-old holding his head in his hands, before Murray gave him a handshake as the pair spoke in private.

Alcaraz, who was warming down on his bike, saw his frown quickly turn into a massive grin as Murray shook his hand, with the gesture clearly cheering him up given that he is a big fan of the British legend.

‘Novak Djokovic’s coach Andy Murray understands the meaning of battle,’ @DjokovicFan_ posted on X. ‘Great sportsmanship after the match.’

A second social media user, @TweenerTommy, added: ‘Andy Murray. Pure Class. You can’t hate him.’

Murray shared an emotional hug with Djokovic courtside after the Serbian’s victory over Alcaraz and was delighted to see his former rival reach the last four in the Australian Open men’s singles.

Djokovic paid tribute to Murray in his post-match press conference and said: ‘I feel more and more connected with Andy every day.

‘We face challenges every single day. People don’t see that obviously. I mean, we try to make the most out of every day and grow together.

‘He’s been as committed to my career and this tournament as he can be. So it (the hug) was kind of a, yeah, gesture of appreciation, respect for him, and the fact that he’s out there, and he doesn’t need to be.

‘He accepted to work with me. He’s giving all his support to me, to the whole team, and trying to make it work.

‘This was a huge win for all of us, including Andy and myself, you know, for the relationship. Yeah, that’s why I went to him, because I just felt very grateful that he’s there.’