Novak Djokovic opened up on his expected split with longtime coach Goran Ivanisevic stating that they had “exhausted” their five-year-long cooperation that goes all the back to 2019.
Djokovic, during his time with Ivanisevic, won 24 ATP titles including nine Grand Slams as the two wrote history that will be talked about for years to come.
Speaking at a press conference in Belgrade, Serbia, about a documentary on one of his former mentors and coach Nikki Pillic, the Serb finally broke the silence on parting ways with Ivanisevic.
“First of all, Goran is my friend for life, mine and of my family’s. He is a very dear person for me, the end of our professional collaboration doesn’t mean that our friendship stops,” the World No. 1 said.
“Our separation has been positive, as positive as a separation can be. We have come to a point where we’ve exhausted our cooperation after almost five years.
“Together, we’ve written history of our sport, we have won Slams, ended seasons as No 1 in the world, but we went through trials and tribulations as well – disqualification at the US Open, deportation from Australia.
“I will always remember that he was there for me as a person, as a human being, first and foremost, and that he brought the right set of values into our relationship. That kind of chemistry was followed by great results. I wish Goran all the best.”
During the presser, the Serb also indicated that he may not appoint any coach after splitting with the Croatian as he is now trying to make decisions very carefully.
“I still don’t have a clear idea who a new coach would be, or whether there will be one at all,” Djokovic 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.”
