Novak Djokovic ’s decision to part ways with long-time coach and mentor Marian Vajda could impact his ability to win Grand Slam titles and remain dominant within the sport.
Djokovic has endured a difficult few months since the saga surrounding his vaccination status led to his absence at the Australian Open in a story which captivated the sporting world. The 20-time Grand Slam champion has struggled as he played a reduced schedule largely due to complications surrounding his vaccination status.
While there are concerns regarding his match sharpness following his inconsistent schedule, former tennis pro Marc Rosset - who won Olympic gold back in 1992 - suggested there are greater issues ahead for the World No. 1. This is because Rosset is not a fan of Djokovic’s decision to remove his ‘historic’ coach, with whom he has won all 20 major titles alongside, from his team.
“There is still something that bothers me with Novak Djokovic,” Rosset told RTS. “Well, I'm curious to see what it will be like now that he has parted ways with his historic coach Marian Vajda.
“Because the last time it had happened, it hadn't really paid off. We'll see if he manages to be as strong as ever without his trusted man.
“Of course, Goran Ivanisevic will always be there, but it's not the same lemonade between them. They don't have that 15-year relationship or that closeness.”
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On top of his vaccination saga, Djokovic was forced to watch helplessly as rival Rafael Nadal won in Melbourne to move to 21 Grand Slam titles. It takes him one clear of Roger Federer and Djokovic to act as the all-time leader in major men’s singles titles won.
The 34-year-old will look to defend his Roland Garros crown, but his clay-court season did not get off to the best start in Monaco. Djokovic was unceremoniously dumped out of the Monte-Carlo Masters, falling to underdog Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-3 6-7 (5-7) 6-1 in the second round.
Djokovic was clearly lacking match sharpness as the tournament was just the second event he has competed in since the turn of the year due to his vaccination status amid Covid restrictions. He will now play the Serbia Open, the last test before the Masters 1000 in Madrid and Rome.
