Novak Djokovic considering going without a coach for first time in his career after Nenad Zimonjic temporary fix
ATP
Novak Djokovic is considering going without a coach for the first time in his career after his trial with Nenad Zimonjic reached a crossroads after the Monte-Carlo Masters. It could well be that Zimonjic continues with the 24-time Grand Slam champion into Rome, but it is a factor that Djokovic will consider.
Djokovic confirmed that they are talking about continuing but that no decision is in fact imminent. For the Serbian ace he does have time to consider this. He will not play Madrid, but has marked Rome on his calendar before Roland Garros. This means that no matter what, a decision will be made either way before the clay court concluder. He spoke at the Laureus Awards after accepting his award for best International Sportsman again.
"I am considering whether I should or shouldn't have the coach," Djokovic said on Monday. "I had a really good time with Zimonjic... we're talking about continuing. Let’s see, I’m going to make the decision in the next period. It’s not like I think I don’t need a coach at all. I think there’s always value in having that quality team... But I think I’m in the stage of my career where I can afford to maybe think having no coach is also an option."
Speaking ahead of the next period, he also showed his want to prepare in the right way for Roland Garros and hence the skipping of Madrid. "I’m preparing my body to be ready particularly for Roland Garros, Wimbledon, Olympic Games and U.S. Open. That’s the most important block of the year for me.
"I'm intending on playing in Rome. This year has been a bit different for me, the start - I'm still finding my best level of tennis. Hopefully that can still come in Roland Garros,"
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Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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