Novak Djokovic parts ways with longtime coach Goran Ivanisevic
Former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic took over as Novak Djokovic's advisor in 2018, became his coach in 2019, and helped the Serb double his Grand Slam tally from 12 to 24. The most significant improvement in Djokovic's game in the last five years was brought by Goran Ivanisevic, the serve.
It was evident right from the beginning of the year that something wasn't right between Djokovic and Ivanisevic during the matches. Ivanisevic was quiet, he didn't coach or stand up and support him much. During Indian Wells, Djokovic communicated mostly in Italian with the Italian guy on his team.
Djokovic is known to be bold when it comes to making changes and that is why he's maintained his level so well throughout his career. Knowing when to refresh things is what greats do.
Novak Djokovic splits with Goran Ivanisevic
World No. 1 Novak Djokovic announced via his Instagram account that his partnership with Goran Ivanisevic has ended "a few days ago"
Goran Ivanisevic joined Novak's team in 2018 as an advisor alongside Marian Vajda. Ivanisevic helped turn around Djokovic's season as he went from being world No. 22 to ending the year as world No.1, winning two Grand Slams and two Masters 1000.
Ivanisevic and Djokovic made a great team and their Croation-Serbian bond always shined more than a professional relationship. They met for the first time in 2001 when Ivanisevic was preparing for Wimbledon in Germany. Djokovic impressed the former world No. 2 as they played for a full 25 minutes. Ivanisevic was a star for Djokovic back then.
All good things have to end one day and this successful partnership has ended too.
Djokovic got everything he needed from this partnership and he recognizes that and probably felt like he needed a fresh perspective. Ivanisevic gave his best but Djokovic needs someone who can give him more as his career enters a new phase. Ivanisevic will not be short of offers if he decides to continue coaching and it might come with less stress and expectations so this might be a win-win situation for both.