Novak Djokovic is considering who will succeed Goran Ivanisevic as his primary coach, and a report in the Serbian media suggests he may have three female candidates in mind.
Ivanisevic took on the role of Djokovic's head coach in March 2022, having previously collaborated with Djokovic's longtime mentor Marian Vajda for several years.
The world number one said he and Ivanisevic parted ways “a few days ago”, writing on Instagram: “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.
“In fact, not only we brought serve, but also lots of laughter, fun, year-end no1 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?
“Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago. 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 (the board game) Parchisi going on… for many years. And – that tournament never stops for us. Thanks for everything my friend. Love you.”
Djokovic went on to suggest he is not planning to appoint a full-time coach in the immediate future, as he indicated he will head into the clay court season without a mentor in his box.
Following Ivanisevic’s departure, Djokovic admitted that he doesn’t quite know yet whom he will turn to.
“I still don’t have a clear idea who a new coach would be, or whether there will be one at all,” he said.
“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. You will be informed in case someone joins the team.”
Now a report has emerged from Serbia suggesting Djokovic may consider hiring a female coach to provide him with a fresh perspective on the game, with former top players Amelie Mauresmo and Conchita Martinez mentioned as contenders for the role in a report in Kurir Sport.
Interestingly, the report also suggests that Andy Murray’s mother Judy could be a candidate to collaborate with Djokovic.
Mauresmo has experience working with a top player as she was Andy Murray’s coach when he was at the peak of his game, while Martinez won the 2021 WTA Coach of the Year award for her work coaching Garbine Muguruza.
Judy Murray is one of the most respected coaches in the UK, but she has never held a full-time coaching role with a professional player on the ATP or WTA Tour.
Djokovic and his team have not commented on the coaching candidates who may work with him, with the possibility of a female voice being added to his team a compelling topic of discussion.
