Novak Djokovic reveals 'side battle' after emotionally splitting from coach Goran Ivanisevic

Novak Djokovic reveals 'side battle' after emotionally splitting from coach Goran Ivanisevic

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Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 27/03/2024

- 11:54

Updated: 27/03/2024

- 11:57

The Serb has split with his coach having won 12 Grand Slams together

Novak Djokovic has sent a sweet message to Goran Ivanisevic after splitting from the tennis coach on Wednesday.

The Serb has won 12 Grand Slams while playing under the Croatian, with the pair working together ever since 2019.


Djokovic, who has won more majors than any other male player in tennis history, has taken to social media to confirm the news.

The world No 1 shared a picture of the pair playing a board game and admitted they had enjoyed a 'side battle' away from the court. as their friendship blossomed.

And he also paid tribute to Ivanisevic for improving his game, with the 36-year-old on the hunt for more Grand Slam titles in the coming years ahead.

"I remember clearly the moment I invited Goran to be part of my team," he wrote.

"It was back in 2018, and Marian and I were looking to innovate and bring some serve magic to our duo.

"In fact, not only we brought serve, but also lots of laughter, fun, year end no1 rankings, record breaking achievements and 12 more Grand Slams (and a few finals) to the count since then.

"Did I mention a bit of drama too?

"Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago. "Our on court chemistry had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid.

"In fact, I am 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.

"And - that tournament never stops for us.

"Sefinjo, thanks for everything my friend. Love you."

Tennis fans have since praised the duo on social media.

One user said: "This duo made history."

A second said: "Will miss seeing Goran on your bench. Great duo."

A third stated: "The greatest coach/player duo ever."

A fourth weighed in by saying: "Damn it. We're going to miss him so much but thank you Goran for absolutely EVERYTHING."

And a fifth said: "Dream team comes to an end."

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Novak Djokovic Goran Ivanisevic

Novak Djokovic has hailed Goran Ivanisevic after his split from the tennis coach

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Djokovic is set to turn his attention to the French Open, which commences on May 26.

It's a tournament the tennis star has won three times over the years.

Djokovic first secured the trophy in 2016, beating Andy Murray 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in the final in Paris.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas in the final of the same competition back in 2021.

And the tennis icon is the defending champion for this year's tournament after powering his way to victory over Casper Ruud in straight sets last June.

Novak Djokovic Goran Ivanisevic

Novak Djokovic won 12 Grand Slam titles while playing under Goran Ivanisevic

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Ivanisevic won just one major during his own tennis career.

He is the only player to win a Wimbledon singles title as a wild card, having claimed the prestigious golden prize with victory over Patrick Rafter in the 2001 final in London.

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