Could Novak Djokovic hire a female coach as report points to surprise names after Ivanisevic split
ATP
Novak
Djokovic is looking for a replacement for Goran Ivanisevic in the coaching
position, and Serbian media suggest he has three female names on his shortlist.
The world No. 1 had an early exit at the 2024 Indian Wells and then withdrew
from the Miami Open just days before confirming his split from Ivanisevic.
The
24-times Grand Slam champion announced it via Instagram: "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," he wrote.
“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.”
Djokovic
admitted that he still doesn't know who will replace the coaching position:
"I still don’t have a clear idea who a new coach would be, or whether
there will be one at all,” he said.
“I’ve had
coaches since I was a kid, now I am trying to feel by myself what I need, what
I feel most comfortable with. You will be informed in case someone joins the
team.”
Serbian
media suggest that among the candidates are former tennis players Amelie
Mauresmo and Conchita Martinez, according to Kurir Sport. Djokovic is also
rumored to have considered Judy Murray, mother of Andy Murray. The British
player previously worked with Mauresmo in 2014 and recently commented on the
criticism he received for working with a female coach:
“Before the
French Open started that year I got asked in a press conference, who my next
coach might be? Martina’s (Navratilova) name was put out there as a
possibility,” said Murray, who was Wimbledon champion when he began working
with Mauresmo.
“It was
then put out in the press that I was considering working with a female coach
and I started getting messages from other players, from their coaches saying
that they couldn’t believe I was playing this game with the media and that I
should tell them tomorrow that I was considering working with a dog,” Murray
added.
“I never
had experienced that before because I’d never worked with a female coach on
tour,” he concluded.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
claps 0visitors 0
Just In
Popular News
Latest Comments
- Wtf? Why is there no reason? And what about the men's?Bel08-11-2026
- One step by another step -- WTA continues to 'lose the plot'. Too many hi-tech microphones being installed at most venues!!! Remove them (especially those along the hallways, sidewalks, and pathways throughout the venues. Not to mention (most of all) remove the mic's from the Players/Coaches Box.
mandoist06-11-2026 - Enough of her bullshit. Go marry someone.mandoist06-11-2026
- Don't you just love this young lady!? We fans often expect athletes to be supermen and superwomen, often forgetting that they WILL GET TIRED! I love Alex's perspective. Tiredness for an athlete should never be viewed as a negative, especially if you are healthy, taking care of your body and mental health and putting in the work. What a mature perspective. Good for you, Alex!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Jess is absolutely correct! But the disrespect is a trait I have noticed in most of the Russian players. Mirra is good but very immature and lacks humility. Conceivable needs to get a handle on that!Rapunzel05-11-2026
- Having spent weeks and weeks through the years on tour, I can say with confidence that Conchita was (is) one of the very few who realize the surprising level of maturity (and sometimes lack of) which Mirra seems to have developed in such a demanding adult world of Pro-Tennis. While at the same time reminding herself (Conchita, that is) that Mirra is still young and developing mentally and physically. The general public may forget at times, or not at all realize, these modern era young athletes do not have a 'normal' Youth. It's a major sacrifice, among countless sacrifices, these athletes must make. People who blow-off that fact are ignorant and unfair when they blurt out, "They choose fame so they have to put up with the intrusions on their lives". No, they do not.mandoist05-11-2026
- Okay... someone with a camera was EAVESDROPPING on a private conversation. Shouldn't that be the point of discussion here? Regardless of the sensationalist crap by media, Pegula (and anyone) has a right to an opinion. There used to be an expectation that private conversations were respected, regardless of 'stardom' and whatever other defensive excuses media tries to shove in our faces. Boo-hoo if feelings are hurt. BTW: Having been employed at various tourney venues, etc., I can't tell you how nasty and offensive players can be when discussing their opponents and colleagues... in "private". Well, I could, but won't. I also challenge anyone to deny what Jessica said is false.mandoist05-11-2026
- Vacherot is Mongasque, rather than Swiss. The tournament was Swiss :DTrwd7702-11-2026
- After a couple decades traveling to IIHF tourneys overseas... our family is done with it... and I will not be the only one!! Bad enough the NHL allows Ovachenko (a Putin Supporter and Campaigner) to live and play in the USA. Let's not forget the STATE SPONSORED RUSSIAN DOPING PROGRAMS still in effect today.mandoist31-10-2026
- Osaka's mental state apparently does not allow her to reach any more Quarter Finals? I mean, she doesn't really have the time for tennis with all the pre-planning that must go into her 12 year-old "fashion" goals.mandoist29-10-2026
