Novak Djokovic sprang a major surprise when he announced he was parting company with long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic, with former British No 1 Annabel Croft suggesting the 24-time Grand Slam champion may have made the move in a bid to ‘squeeze the last few ounces’ from his tennis career.
Ivanisevic became the Serbian’s main coach in March 2022, having previously worked alongside Djokovic’s long-time mentor Marian Vajda for several years.
The world number one said he and Ivanisevic parted ways “a few days ago”, writing on Instagram: “I remember clearly the moment I invited Goran to be part of my team. 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 (the board game) Parchisi going on… for many years. And – that tournament never stops for us. Thanks for everything my friend. Love you.”
The warm announcement sparked speculation over what may come next for Djokovic, with some suggesting it may be a sign that the 24-time Grand Slam champion is winding his career down before retirement.
Yet Croft believes Djokovic may have a plan in mind for what comes next, as she believes a new coaching team may already be in place.
“It was a little bit of a shock,” Croft told Sky Sports Tennis.
“It was a very nice message he put out, very much making it clear that they are still extremely good friends and they’ve had a fantastic run together.
“They’ve been together for about six years – 12 Grand Slam titles later that they won together but I would imagine that that tells you all is not great where Novak Djokovic feels his tennis is at right now.
“He didn’t win in Australia, he’s chosen not to play here (Miami Open) for personal reasons.
“It’s going to be fascinating. Who’s he going to pick now?
“If he’s going to squeeze the last few ounces out of his tennis career while all these youngsters are nipping at his heels, who’s he going to bring in? It’s a big decision. Time is so precious at the age that he’s at so it’s fascinating.”
Croft went on to suggest Carlos Alcaraz is already threatening to take over from Djokovic as the biggest name in the men’s game, as he has been the centre of attention at the Miami Open in recent days.
Djokovic’s absence from the tennis tour leaves a big hole that is being filled by the next generation of star names, with Croft impressed by the form and star power of the Wimbledon champion.
“Carlos Alcaraz is still going strong. He’s only dropped 15 games to get this far. He did well in Indian Wells to do good there,” she added.
“He won Wimbledon and said the ankle problem he has had recently, he feels like he is really free moving. Every time he turns up on any practice or match court, people are flocking to watch him.
“The movement, the entertainment, the shot selection, he’s got every shot in the book. It’s very reminiscent of when Roger Federer was at his peak.”
