Novak Djokovic has strongly hinted that he might just skip the strain of seeking out a new coach and go it alone for the remainder of his career.
The world No. 1 who parted with mentor Goran Ivanisevic last month, called upon longtime friend Nenad Zimonjic, who joined him at Monte Carlo this month where he reached the semi-finals.
But the Serb then withdrew from the Madrid Masters starting on Wednesday before revealing his current strategy at the Laureus awards in Madrid where he took Sportsman of the Year honours.
“I’m considering whether I should or shouldn’t have the coach,” the 36-year-old said.
That radical strategy would align with Australian NIck Kyrgios, the tennis rebel who has shunned coaching for several seasons, saying he can do a better job than anyone else with his own game.
“I had a really good time with Nenad Zimonjić as my coach the last three weeks so we’re talking about continuing and seeing. Let’s see, I’m going to make the decision in the next period.”
The Serb said there is no rush about his future with or without a coach.
“It’s not like I think I don’t need a coach at all – there’s always value in having that quality team and fitness coach, physio, mental coach.
“It creates a formula for success and helps you perform better, train better, recover better.”
But he warned: “I’m in the stage of my career where I can afford to maybe think having no coach is also an option. Let’s see. I’m going to make my decision soon.”
Djokovic’s current plans include heading to Roland Garros with only one final tune-up event in Rome still to play.
“I’m preparing my body to be ready particularly for Roland Garros, Wimbledon, Olympic Games and US Open. That’s the most important block of the year for me.
“I’m intending on playing in Rome, so I hope I can be there, be ready. This year has been a bit different for me, the start, I’m still finding my best level of tennis. Hopefully that can still come in Roland Garros.
Main photo:- Novak Djokovic beat Nick Kyrgios in Wimbledon 2022 Final – by Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd
