Stefanos Tsitsipas has parted ways with coach Goran Ivanisevic, just weeks after the two teamed up following the French Open.
Ivanisevic, a former Wimbledon champion and long-time coach of Novak Djokovic, joined Tsitsipas’s camp ahead of Wimbledon, where the Greek was forced to retire in the first round due to a back injury.
But the short-lived partnership was marred by tension. Speaking to Serbian outlet Sport Klub earlier this month, Ivanisevic criticised Tsitsipas’ physical condition and preparation.
“If he resolves certain off-court issues, he’ll have a chance to return to where he belongs, because he’s too good to be outside the top 10,” Ivanisevic said.
“He says he wants to (return to the top level), but he’s not doing anything. It’s always ‘I want, I want,’ but I don’t see any progress.
“I was shocked; I’ve never seen a more unprepared player in my life. With this knee, I’m three times fitter than him. It’s really bad.”
Ivanisevic later admitted that Tsitsipas was unhappy with the public remarks, though the Greek never commented directly on the matter.
Now, three weeks on, the world No.29 has confirmed the split via social media.
“Working with Goran Ivanisevic was brief but an intense experience and a truly valuable chapter in my journey,” Tsitsipas wrote.
“I’m thankful for the time, effort and energy he dedicated to me and my team. As we are now following our separate ways, I have only respect for Goran — not just for what he’s achieved in tennis, but also for who he is as a person.
“I wish him nothing but the very best moving forward.”
