Holger Rune is no longer working with Marco Panichi, the fitness coach who previously worked with Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner. The Italian confirmed the news during an appearance on Gonzo Tennis, where he also discussed his plans to return to the professional circuit next season.
Panichi joined Rune’s team in the summer of 2025, but their collaboration was interrupted when the Dane suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in October that year. Rune spent months recovering from the injury before returning to competition around September 2026.
The circumstances surrounding the end of their partnership have not been disclosed. Neither Panichi nor Rune has publicly explained the decision, so it remains unclear when they stopped working together or what prompted the change.
Panichi is now considering his next move after receiving several offers. The Italian has extensive experience working with elite players, having spent six and a half years with Djokovic and nine months with Sinner before joining Rune’s team.
Panichi confirms his plans for an ATP Tour return
Panichi explained that he is currently working with the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation but intends to return to the professional circuit in 2027. He also made clear that he has yet to decide which player or project he will take on next.
“I’m not with any particular player. I’m overseeing physical preparation for the Kazakhstan Tennis Federation. I’ll definitely be back on the Tour next season. It’s what I enjoy doing and what I’d like to continue doing. I still don’t know who I’ll be working with; there have been several offers, and I’ll evaluate them. I want to take my time,” Panichi said.
His departure from Rune’s team comes after a partnership that had limited time to develop because of the Dane’s lengthy injury absence. However, there is no confirmed connection between the end of their collaboration and Rune’s Achilles injury.
Panichi discusses Sinner’s knee injury
Panichi also addressed Sinner’s right knee injury, which, according to Sky Sport, was attributed to iliotibial band syndrome. “I don’t have more precise information about Jannik. I don’t know what’s happening, so it’s difficult to make a judgment," Panichi said. "What is certain is that when you are always pushing yourself to the limit, there is a risk of injury. Just look at what happens to football teams."
Asked about iliotibial band syndrome, he explained how the condition can develop and affect athletes who repeatedly put their bodies under significant strain.
“Iliotibial band syndrome? It’s a typical condition among runners. It’s an inflammation caused by overexertion, especially if precise footwork technique isn’t used," he added. "Over time, this band can become inflamed at its insertion point on the outside of the knee. It’s uncomfortable."
Jannik Sinner has been discharged from San Raffaele Hospital following medical tests after falling ill in Paris
Panichi also discussed the potential recovery process, while reiterating that he could not confirm whether the condition was responsible for Sinner’s problem.
“I don’t know exactly what happened to Jannik, but it’s a condition that affects runners on hard surfaces. If that’s the case, it will keep him away from the courts for some time,” Panichi said. “Surgery doesn’t offer the same guarantees for these types of conditions as it does for others, such as a torn ACL, for example. Almost nobody undergoes surgery for this problem.”
The former fitness coach also pointed to the demands of the modern tennis calendar, including the increasing number of matches and exhibition events players are expected to take part in.
“The physical effort these players put in on court is really significant. In the past, the intensity was much lower. Moreover, nowadays tennis players are expected to play many exhibition matches, and it’s difficult to say no.
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“The great champions are in high demand, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for them to manage their schedules. Injuries have always existed, and it’s obvious they attract more headlines when they affect the world No. 1 or No. 2.”
While Panichi has not provided a diagnosis for Sinner, his comments underline the physical demands placed on top-level players. His own next step is expected to come in 2027, when he plans to return to the professional circuit after evaluating the offers he has received.
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.
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