Following their split, Novak Djokovic is currently without a full-time coach. Goran Ivansevic was.
After being seen rehearsing with Holger Rune in advance of the Monte Carlo Masters next week, Novak Djokovic looks to have made the first significant move toward succeeding former coach Goran Ivansevic. Notably, though, Nenad Zimonjic was present during the session and appears to have temporarily assumed leadership of the 24-time Grand Slam champion following his unexpected choice.
Ivanisevic worked with the 36-year-old for six years, during which time he eclipsed both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer in terms of Slam victories. Additionally, the two were present during the notorious Australian Open visa drama in 2022, which resulted in the Serbian player’s deportation home the day before the competition started due to his reluctance to receive the Covid-19 vaccination.
Following his shocking loss to Luca Nardi, ranked 123rd in the world, in Indian Wells, Djokovic broke up with the Croat. Furthermore, there has unavoidably been conjecture that a long-term reunion between him and Zimonjic is imminent given their prior connections.
Zimonjic had a poor career as a singles, but he won doubles championships at Wimbledon and the French Open. Crucially, the 47-year-old was a member of Djokovic’s coaching staff in the past, helping Ivanisevic before quitting in 2022 due to his inability to fulfill his progressively demanding schedule.
Before making a choice, Djokovic is anticipated to evaluate a number of other contenders in an effort to get back to the form that won him three Slam titles in 2023. His dreams of winning a major title overseas were dashed in the semifinals when he lost to eventual victor Jannik Sinner in four sets.
Now, attention is focused on the next clay-court season, which gets underway on Monday with the ATP 1000 event in Monte Carlo. In addition, Djokovic offered little information while discussing his coaching position earlier this week, even hinting that he would decide to pursue a solo professional path.
“I still don’t know for sure who it could be or whether anyone will be there at all,” he remarked. “I have had a coach since I was a young child. I’m making an effort right now to feel what I need and what makes me happy. Naturally, you’ll be notified as soon as someone arrives.”
