Novak Djokovic parts ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic amid tough start to 2024 season

Record Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has parted ways with his coach Goran Ivanisevic ahead of the crucial clay season. The Serbian made the announcement on Wednesday (Mar 27), ending a fruitful partnership where he won 12 Grand Slam titles under Ivanisevic’s guidance.

The Croatian joined Djokovic’s team in 2018 as the Serb looked for ways to improve his serve and overall gameplay.

“Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago,” Djokovic posted on Instagram.

Djokovic is known for having animated reactions towards his team that sits in the stands during the matches. Often, the 24-time Grand Slam champion is seen venting his raw emotions towards the box, with Ivanisevic usually taking the stick for it.

Djokovic acknowledged that their working relationship had witnessed several ups and downs but their friendship remained intact.

“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,” he added.

Djokovic’s struggles

Having ended the 2023 season with three Grand Slams, Djokovic has not had the best of starts to 2024. He lost in the Australian Open semifinals to eventual winner Jannik Sinner before suffering a shock third-round loss to Luca Nardi at Indian Wells.

Nardi, who is ranked No. 124, became the lowest-ranked player to beat Djokovic in a Grand Slam or ATP Masters 1000 level event, surpassing No. 122 Levin Anderson in 2008 in Miami.

| Novak Djokovic calls 2023 as ‘best year’ after clinching three Grand Slam titles

Earlier this month, the Serb pulled out of the ongoing Miami Open to limit the number of events he plays this year.

“At this stage of my career, I’m balancing my private and professional schedule. I’m sorry that I won’t experience some of the best and most passionate fans in the world,” Djokovic wrote.

With the French Open approaching, Djokovic understands that he needs to some change in his training regime to get back to the top. The French Open takes place between may 26 to June 9 and Djokovic would be hoping to secure a fourth title in Paris.