Advertisement
trendingNowenglish2002482

Novak Djokovic splits with coach Marian Vajda, fitness trainer Gebhard Phil Gritsch and physio Miljan Amanovic

The move comes after Djoker ended his three-year-old partnership with Boris Becker in December last year.

Novak Djokovic splits with coach Marian Vajda, fitness trainer Gebhard Phil Gritsch and physio Miljan Amanovic

New Delhi: Serbian tennis professional Novak Djokovic on Friday sent his fans in a state of shock by announcing his decison to part ways with his coaching team, which has been an integral part of his game for the last eight to ten years.

Djokovic, who is currently ranked No. 2 in the world, has mutually agreed with his coach Marian Vajda, fitness coach Gebhard Phil Gritsch, and physiotherapist Miljan Amanovic to end their successful and long term partnership after Masters tournament in Monte Carlo.

“I am forever grateful to Marian, GG and Miljan for decade of friendship, professionalism and commitment to my career goals. Without their support I couldn’t have achieved these professional heights. I know they completely dedicated themselves and their lives to help me achieve my dreams and they were always my driving force and wind in my back. It was not an easy decision, but we all felt that we need a change. I am very grateful and proud of our relationship and unbreakable bond that we built through years of mutual love, respect and understanding. They are my family and that will never change”, Djokovic was quoted as saying through his official website.

The move comes after Djoker ended his three-year-old partnership with Boris Becker in December last year. Djokovic won six Grand Slams since appointing Becker in December 2013, and held all four major titles at the same when he defeated Murray in the French Open final in June.

Talking about his future, the 29-year-old said that he is looking for a head coach and will be supported for some time by his family.

“I feel like this is a new chapter in my life. My career was always on the upward path and this time I’m experiencing how it is when the path takes you in a different direction. I want to find a way to come back to the top stronger and more resilient. I have so much faith in this process and that’s why I will take time to find the right person who I can connect with professionally. I have been on the tour long enough to know how to manage daily routines and I don’t want to rush my decision. I will be on the tour alone for a while with support of my family and management. I will inform the public when I find the right person, but for now I thank you for your support and understanding”, concluded Djokovic.

After winning his maiden French Open title last year, Djokovic's form dipped drastically in the second half of 2016, where he was knocked out in the third round at Wimbledon, lost his opening match at the Rio Olympics and was beaten in the US Open final.

Given the kind of form he is in, he isn't the favourite to defend the title at Roland Garros this year.