Novak Djokovic’s frustration at an early knockout at the Indian Wells Masters may be partly responsible for his shock announcement that longtime coach Goran Ivanisevic will no longer be part of the team.
The Serb ranked world No. 1 has gone to ground since losing nearly a month ago in the third round in California to Italian Luca Nardi.
Djokovic then pulled out of the ongoing Miami Masters and is expected to resurface from April 7 at the Monte Carlo Masters without his Croat coach onside.
Rumours about the fabled Djokovic motivation have been swirling, with suggestions that the 36-year-old may cut out most events save the Grand Slams and selected 1000 series Masters as he concentrates on the record books.
The colourful Ivanisevic, a former Wimbledon champion, joined Team Djoko in 2018 and helped the Serb to a dozen Grand Slam titles.
The player insisted in a statement that he and Ivanisevic remain good friends.
“I clearly remember the moment in which I invited Goran to be part of my team.
“It was 2018 and (coach) Marian (Vajda) and I were looking to innovate and bring some magic to our duo.
“In fact, we not only brought service, but also laughter, fun, being number 1 at the end of the year, records and 12 Grand Slams (and some finals).”
Djokovic added that the departure was not spur of the moment:
“Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago. Our chemistry on the court had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid.
In fact, I’m proud to say that apart from winning tournaments, we also had a parallel battle with (board game) Parcheesi for many years.
“And that tournament never ends for us. Thank you for everything friend, I love you.”
Ivanisevic co-coached with Vajda until taking over the main role in 2022.
Main photo:- Novak Djokovic celebrates with coach Goran Ivanisevic after he wins Wimbledon 2022 – Photo Roger Parker International Sports Fotos Ltd
