Novak Djokovic breaks up with Goran Ivanisevic with bitter-sweet message Tennis News

Tennis world No. 1s Novak Djokovic and Goran Ivanisevic announced on Wednesday they were parting ways, ending a five-year partnership that had seen them win 12 Grand Slams between them. Djokovic brought Croatia’s 2001 Wimbledon champion on to his coaching staff ahead of the 2019 grass-court Grand Slam, and while the Serb admitted their “on-court chemistry had its ups and downs,” it also brought huge benefits success. However, true to his high standards, Djokovic got off to a poor start to the year, losing to eventual champion Italy’s Sinner in the Australian Open semifinals.

The 36-year-old Serbian then lost to Sinner’s unknown compatriot Luca Nardi in the third round at Indian Wells, prompting him to withdraw from the Miami tournament, which he claimed was due to scheduling reasons.

“Golan and I decided a few days ago to stop working together,” Djokovic posted on Instagram.

“Our chemistry on the court has had its ups and downs, but our friendship has always been rock solid.

“In fact, I’m proud to say (not sure if he is) that in addition to winning games together, we had a side battle in Patch West for … years,” he said, referring to the online game.

“And – the game never stops for us. Sefinjo, thank you for everything my friend. Love you.”

Djokovic said the mercurial and charismatic Ivanisevic brought more than just his tennis talent to the partnership, something he and then-head coach Marian Vajda had always wanted. Looking for something.

“I clearly remember the moment I asked Golan to join my team,” Djokovic said.

“It was 2018 and Marian (Vajda) and I were looking to innovate and bring some serving magic to our duo.

“The fact that we brought not just serve but a lot of laughter, a lot of fun, a year-end No. 1 ranking, record-breaking achievements and 12 Grand Slams (and a few finals) since then.”

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)