Djokovic splits with long-time coach Vajda
MELBOURNE : Novak Djokovic split with his long-time coach
Marian Vajda at the end of the 2021 season, ending one of tennis's most
enduring and successful partnerships, the Serbian former world number one said.
Slovak Vajda has been a near-constant through Djokovic's
career, helping him to 20 Grand Slam titles and an unprecedented 361 weeks as
the top-ranked player.
“Marian has been by my side during the most important and
memorable moments in my career," Djokovic said on his website.
"Together we have achieved some incredible things and I
am very grateful for his friendship and dedication over the last 15 years.
"While he might be leaving the professional team he
will always be family and I can’t thank him enough for all he has done."
The pair parted ways after the ATP Finals in Turin, a
statement on Djokovic's website said.
Croatian former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic joined
Djokovic's coaching team in 2019 and will continue to work closely with the
Serb.
“During my time with Novak, I have been lucky to watch him
transform into the player he is today," said Vajda.
"I will look back on our time together with immense
pride and am so very thankful for the success we have achieved.
"I remain his biggest support on and off the court and
look forward to new challenges."
Djokovic lost his world number one ranking to Russian Daniil
Medvedev this week after suffering a shock 6-4 7-6(4) defeat by Czech qualifier
Jiri Vesely in the Dubai Tennis Championships quarter-finals.
Djokovic was unable to defend his Australian Open title in
January and compete for a record 21st Grand Slam crown after being deported
from the country over his lack of COVID-19 vaccination.
Spanish rival Rafa Nadal won the Melbourne Park tournament
and took a record 21st Grand Slam crown in his absence.
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