Stefanos Tsitsipas’ decision to hire Goran Ivanisevic after a disappointing clay season was initially met with optimism. The Croatian coach, celebrated for his successful collaboration with Novak Djokovic, was expected to help the Greek rediscover his best form. However, the partnership ended abruptly after just two tournaments.
Struggles on grass
Tsitsipas began his grass season with a round-of-16 loss to Alex Michelsen in Halle, followed by a retirement against Valentin Royer in the Wimbledon second round. Ivanisevic’s frustration boiled over, as he described Tsitsipas as “the most unprepared player I have ever seen.” That remark effectively marked the end of their collaboration.
Ivanisevic’s record with Djokovic
Between 2019 and 2024, Ivanisevic enjoyed immense success coaching Djokovic, with the pair winning nine Grand Slam titles together. His reputation as a coach was built largely on that period, which many believed could translate into success with Tsitsipas.
Salnikova’s harsh words
Tsitsipas’ mother, Yulia Salnikova, expressed her disappointment with Ivanisevic’s approach. “Because Goran never intended to build them. Goran’s history as a coach begins and ends with a player named Novak Djokovic. He completely lost himself in him. I saw it. It shocked me. He treated Djokovic as a dear person who needed all-round support. Goran was ready to do anything for Djokovic, willing to fulfill any whim. And that won me over. It turned out to be an illusion. Observing this relationship, I naively assumed it could be the same with the next player. But such love happens once in a lifetime; no one can repeat it,” Salnikova told sports.ru.
Taking responsibility
In the same interview, Salnikova admitted that she was the one who pushed for Ivanisevic to become Tsitsipas’ coach. She accepted full responsibility for the failed experiment, acknowledging that her expectations were misplaced.
Previous coaching stint
Before working with Tsitsipas, Ivanisevic had a brief spell with Elena Rybakina, which lasted only a month before they parted ways after the Australian Open. The short-lived nature of these partnerships has raised questions about his ability to replicate the success he enjoyed with Djokovic.
Stefanos Tsitsipas in 2025
Currently ranked no.34, Tsitsipas played his last match on the 5th of December when he was overcome by world no.46 Daniel Altmaier 7-6(5) 1-6 4-6 6-3 7-5 in the 2nd round of the U.S. Open (draw).
During this season the Greek achieved a 22-18 win-loss record. The Greek has won 1 title in Dubai.
