"I’s quite relative what the right person is": Novak Djokovic reacts to Jannik Sinner parting ways with familiar faces

Monday, 30 June 2025 at 00:30

Novak Djokovic addressed the recent changes in Jannik Sinner's coaching staff, which saw two members of his team dismissed just days before Wimbledon. The World No. 1 announced he would no longer be working with fitness coach Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Ulises Badio.

Both professionals previously worked with Djokovic and joined Sinner's team around August 2024. They took over the roles from Umberto Ferrara and Giacomo Naldi – who left Sinner's team after a doping case, which eventually resulted in a three-month suspension for the Italian.

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At a time of upheaval in Sinner's close circle, two experienced individuals had been chosen to take on the roles of physiotherapist and fitness coach for the three-time Grand Slam champion. However, both left the team after Sinner's second-round loss at the Halle Open.

It was the first time Sinner had lost to a player other than Carlos Alcaraz in almost 10 months, and it appears Sinner became concerned about making some changes, especially after two consecutive final losses to Alcaraz in the last month: at the Rome Open and Roland Garros.

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Upon his arrival at Wimbledon, Novak Djokovic commented on Panichi and Badio's departure from Sinner's team. The Serb knows them well, having worked with them for several years.

"Both of them (Panichi and Badio) were with me, yeah,” stated Djokovic in his pre-Wimbledon press conference. “Well, it’s quite relative what the right person is, the definition of the right person for a certain player is. We are all different. We all have different physical constitutions or, mentally, we’re, I guess, used to a certain way of working."

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"I don’t know what the reasons are for the split with Jannik. It came as a surprise to me as well because I think Jannik’s game and body really has improved so much in the last year, year and a half. They’ve been an integral part of that team. I don’t know, to be honest. But changes happen."

Djokovic arrives at Wimbledon with the ambition of fighting for his 25th Grand Slam title, after losing in his two previous finals at SW19 to Alcaraz. He recently had a good run at the French Open up to the semifinals, but fell decisively in straight sets to Sinner.

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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