Tennis enthusiasts voiced their opinions after Novak Djokovic conveyed his doubts about appointing a new coach, following his break-up with Goran Ivanisevic. Just one day after revealing the termination of his nearly five-year partnership with Ivanisevic, Djokovic elaborated on the split during a press conference in Belgrade. The Serbian player spoke affectionately about his relationship with the 2001 Wimbledon winner and reassured that their separation was friendly.
Djokovic, however, said that he was uncertain about his next step. “I still don’t have a clear idea who a new coach would be, or whether there will be one at all,” he stated. Apart from Ivanisevic, the World No. 1 has worked with several other well-known figures like Boris Becker, Andre Agassi, and longtime coach Marian Vajda. Djokovic suggested that he would try to rely on himself from now on, saying, “I’ve had coaches since I was a kid, now I am trying to feel by myself what I need, what I feel most comfortable with.”
The player’s comments sparked concern among tennis followers, with many expressing their apprehension about his apparent “cluelessness.” Journalist Ben Rothenberg shared similar thoughts, noting that Djokovic appeared “almost adrift.” However, some fans supported Djokovic’s statements, with one arguing that he doesn’t need a coach anymore since nobody can teach him anything new. Others suggested he should rely on Carlos Gomez-Herrera, his current assistant coach, hitting partner, and team manager, as the two seem to have a strong bond.
Djokovic’s decision to end his collaboration with Ivanisevic followed a string of lackluster performances, including a disappointing showing at the 2024 Indian Wells event. The world’s top-ranked player will seek to bounce back during the upcoming claycourt season, starting with the Monte-Carlo Masters in April.
