Novak Djokovic has decided to end his successful partnership with Croatian coach Goran Ivanisevic, just before the start of the clay season, announced the ATP world number one on Wednesday, according to Reuters.
Ivanisevic, Wimbledon champion in 2001 after reaching the finals in 1992, 1994, and 1998, joined Djokovic’s team in 2019 and helped win nine Grand Slam titles.
''Goran and I have decided to end our collaboration a few days ago,'' said Djokovic, 36, in a post on Instagram. ''Our chemistry on the court had its ups and downs, but our friendship has always been strong. I am proud to say (not sure if he is) that besides winning tournaments together, we have been having a Parcheesi (a popular American game) duel for many years. And that tournament has never ended for us. Sefinjo, thank you for everything my friend. I love you.''
At this year's Australian Open, where the Serb was aiming for his 25th Grand Slam title, Italian Jannik Sinner eliminated him in the semifinals with 6-1, 6-2, 6-7, 6-3.
After another unexpected defeat, in the third round at Indian Wells, against Luca Nardi, Djokovic withdrew from the Miami Masters.
The Serb is now focusing on the clay season and will be going for his fourth title at Roland-Garros (May 26th - June 9th).