Goran Ivanisevic, the true mentor of Novak Djokovic, has been an undeniable force, who has made a blazing impact on Djokovic’s gameplay ever since their alliance back in 2018. Their fateful union has resulted in an even fiercer competitor in Novak Djokovic whose meteoric rise in recent years has left spectators in awe.
Ivanisevic has never spoken about the formidable challenges he faces as Djokovic’s coach. The Serbian is a perfectionist, constantly striving to develop his repertoire. However, Djokovic’s occasional fiery exchanges with his coaching team have invited criticism and shock from tennis fans.
Djokovic’s fiery reactions hold no consideration over Ivanisevic’s unwavering support. These raw emotions, he asserts, are the natural release of the champion’s relentless drive for greatness. “We talk a million times, and I have no problem with him,” he declares with an air of understanding befitting his mentorship.
In an exclusive interview with Sportske Novosti, the Croatian remains unfazed dismissing the notion that Djokovic engages in heated clashes with him during matches. “Fights? Nonsense! First of all, I can’t hear half of the things he says. We’re talking about huge stadiums, where people scream and don’t let you hear everything.” (via Tennis World)
Djokovic and Ivanisevic stand as a triumphant duo, who are leaving an indelible mark in tennis history. Their relentless bond, blended with fire and passion, continues to elevate Djokovic’s game to celestial heights.
Goran Ivanisevic’s recent clashes with Novak Djokovic during matches
During the quarterfinal defeat at the Italian Open in May this year, Novak Djokovic engaged in an expletive-laden argument with his coach, Goran Ivanisevic. The match ended in a disappointing loss to Danish seventh seed Holger Rune. Throughout the intense match, Djokovic grew increasingly frustrated with the feedback he received from his Croatian coach.
Voicing his discontent with the lack of clarity, Djokovic was heard saying, “Everyone is constantly in confusion” at his coaching box, expressing his annoyance during a critical moment. In response, Ivanisevic snapped back at Djokovic with an outburst, “What the f*** is wrong with you? Play, play, play… get away from the ball!”
In another incident this year, in a tense second-round match at the French Open against Marton Fucsovics, Novak Djokovic found himself facing unexpected challenges in the first set. Frustration began to brew within the Serb as things didn’t go according to plan. In a moment of heightened emotions, Djokovic turned to Goran Ivanisevic with a forceful outburst.
In a visible display of irritation, Djokovic shouted at his coach. He said, “Get up, get up, I can’t hear you, you f**k.” The incident highlighted the immense pressure and emotions that can arise during competitive matches, even for seasoned champions like Djokovic.
These moments can be seen as a venting of frustration. It also serves as a reminder that even legends are not immune to moments of tension in pursuit of excellence.