The standards are high for Novak Djokovic.
Djokovic announced Wednesday morning he has split with coach Goran Ivanišević with his 2024 season off to a less-than-spectacular start.
“Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago,” Djokovic wrote on Instagram alongside pictures of the two together. “Our on court chemistry had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid. In fact, I am proud to say (not sure he is 🤪) that apart from winning tournaments together, we also had a side battle in (Parcheesi) going on… for many years. And – that tournament never stops for us.”
Ivanišević — a hard-serving lefty in his playing days who won Wimbledon in 2001— initially became part of Djokovic’s team in 2018 and became his full-time coach in March 2022.
Djokovic, 36, has been on top of the sport for much of that time — winning 12 of his record-setting 24 Grand Slam titles since 2018 as he surged past Big 3 rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Ivanišević worked alongside Djokovic’s mentor, Marian Vajda, when he was first hired by the Serbian star.
“I remember clearly the moment I invited Goran to be part of my team. It was back in 2018, and Marian and I were looking to innovate and bring some serve magic to our duo,” Djokovic wrote. “In fact, not only we brought serve, but also lots of laughter, fun, year end no, 1 rankings, record breaking achievements and 12 more Grand Slams (and a few finals) to the count since then. Did I mention a bit of drama too?”
Djokovic lost to Italian phenom Jannik Sinner in the semifinals at the Australian Open in January and then suffered a shocking upset loss to No. 123-ranked Luca Nardi at Indian Wells.
Djokovic withdrew from the Miami Open, writing on X that “at this stage of my career, I’m balancing my private and professional schedule.”
It is unclear who will replace Ivanišević as Djokovic’s next full-time coach.
“Šefinjo, thanks for everything my friend. Love you,” Djokovic concluded the note.
