World number one
Novak Djokovic
has parted ways with his highly successful coach
Goran Ivanisevic
just before the clay season kicks into high gear, Djokovic announced on Wednesday.
Ivanisevic, the Croatian tennis legend who clinched the
Wimbledon
singles title in 2001 following three runner-up finishes in 1992, 1994, and 1998, became a part of Djokovic's coaching team in 2019.
During their partnership, Djokovic, 36, captured nine
Grand Slam
titles with Ivanisevic's guidance.
"Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago," 24-time major champion Djokovic said in an Instagram post with a picture of himself and Ivanisevic playing a board game.
"Our on-court chemistry had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid. In fact, I'm proud to say (not sure he is) that apart from winning tournaments together we also had a side battle in Parchisi going on... for many years.
"And that tournament never stops for us. Sefinjo, thanks for everything my friend. Love you."
Djokovic's quest for a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam singles title came to an end with a surprising defeat in the semi-finals of the
Australian Open
in January, where he was defeated 6-1, 6-2 6-7(6), 6-3 by Jannik Sinner.
Following this setback, the Serbian tennis maestro opted to withdraw from the ongoing Miami Open, as part of his strategy to limit his tournament appearances for the year. This decision followed his unexpected third-round loss to Luca Nardi at Indian Wells.
Looking ahead, Djokovic will now focus on preparing for the upcoming clay season, with his sights set on clinching a fourth title at the
French Open
. The prestigious tournament is scheduled to take place from May 26 to June 9.
(With Reuters inputs)
English (US) ·