In an exclusive interview with Sport Klub, Goran Ivanišević, former coach of Novak Djokovic, sheds light on the recent split between him and the tennis star, as well as the potential for a new coach.

Amidst speculation about who will fill the coaching role for Novak Djokovic, Ivanišević reveals that Nenad Zimonjić is currently accompanying Djokovic in Monte Carlo. Ivanišević expresses confidence in Zimonjić’s suitability for the position: “The real answer is Zimonjić. He is my great friend, we have been through a lot together, I love him – he is a great tennis connoisseur. But what is most important in all of this is that he knows Novak.”

Ivanišević emphasizes the importance of familiarity in Djokovic’s coaching dynamic, suggesting that introducing a new coach at this stage might disrupt the balance: “Novak doesn’t need a new coach right now until he gets to know him first. Otherwise, he (Novak) would go crazy after ten days, and the coach would wonder what’s going on.”

Further justifying Zimonjić’s suitability, Ivanišević highlights the potential for a fresh perspective: “Maybe he (Zimonjić) will tell him the same thing but in a different way, a different approach, which will be refreshing for Novak.”

Reflecting on his own communication with Zimonjić prior to Djokovic’s invitation, Ivanišević is convinced of Zimonjić’s compatibility: “We talked with Ziki before I found out that Novak had called him. I think Ziki is perfect for Novak. He can help him tennis-wise, Novak knows everything, but maybe he will say the same thing to him in a different way, a different approach, which will be refreshing for Novak.”

In the hour-long interview with Sport Klub, Ivanišević delves into the reasons for the split, the discussions held in America, Djokovic’s current state, as well as the highs and lows of their nearly five-year collaboration.

As Djokovic navigates this transitional period, the insights shared by Ivanišević shed light on the intricacies of the coaching relationship and the pivotal role it plays in an athlete’s career.

Novak Djokovic in 2024

Ranked no.1, Novak played his last match on the 11^th of March when he capitulated to world no.75 Luca Nardi 6-4 3-6 6-3 in the 3^rd round in Indian Wells (draw).

Presently, during this year the Serbian owns an overall 8-3 win-loss record. Novak Djokovic’s most significant accomplishment of the present year was getting to the semifinal at the Australian Open.

Djokovic will compete next in Monte-Carlo Rolex Masters (Monte–Carlo). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 7th of April.