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March 28, 2024, 11:00 am
Sports

Novak Djokovic parts ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic ahead of Clay Season

Georgina Ledua
Digital Media Specialist | georginal@fijitv.com.fj
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Novak Djokovic at the 2023 ATP Finals.

World number one tennis player Novak Djokovic has announced the end of his successful partnership with Croatian coach Goran Ivanisevic just before the clay season begins in full swing.

Djokovic, a 24-time major champion, revealed the split with Ivanisevic, who joined his coaching team in 2019, in an Instagram post accompanied by a photo of the two engaged in a board game.

“Our on-court chemistry had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid,” Djokovic shared.

25th June 2022, All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England; Wimbledon Tennis tournament; Novak Djokovic’s coach Goran Ivanisevic leaves the court after the session

“In fact, I’m proud to say (not sure he is) that apart from winning tournaments together we also had a side battle in Parchisi going on… for many years.”

Acknowledging their shared history and camaraderie, Djokovic expressed gratitude to Ivanisevic, affectionately referred to as “Sefinjo,” for their time together.

The decision comes as Djokovic’s bid for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title was halted with a defeat in the semi-finals of the Australian Open earlier this year.

He subsequently withdrew from the ongoing Miami Open to manage his tournament schedule after a surprise loss at Indian Wells.

With the clay season approaching, Djokovic will focus on preparations for the French Open, aiming to secure his fourth title at the tournament scheduled from May 26 to June 9.