Novak Djokovic splits with coach Boris Becker after three years
Tennis ace Novak Djokovic has parted ways with coach Boris Becker after working together for three years. The pair was immensely successful in the three-year stint winning six Grand Slams. However, Djokovic announced their split on a social networking site earlier today.
Becker, himself a former Wimbledon, US and Australian Open champion, was hired by Djokovic in December of 2013. Under his tutelage, the Serbian world number 2 won six Grand Slams including two Wimbledon titles and two Australian Open titles. He also held all four majors simultaneously when he won the French Open in June 2016 thereby completing a career Grand Slam.
Writing on his Facebook page, Djokovic said, "The goals we set when we started working together have been completely fulfilled. I want to thank him for the cooperation, teamwork, dedication and commitment."
He was at the top of the ranking charts for 122 weeks before being dismantled by Britain’s Andy Murray in November. In a not so memorable 2016, he crashed out of the Wimbledon in the third round and was ousted in the first round of the Olympics this year.
Djokovic lost in the US Open final to Stanislas Wawrinka and also in the final of the season-ending ATP World Tour Finals against Murray last month.
The 29-year-old added, "My professional plans are now directed primarily to maintain a good level of play. And also to make a good schedule and new goals for the next season. In this regard, I will make all future decisions.”
When Djokovic appointed Becker, there was a lot of cynicism, initially. However, there cannot be any argument that the past three years have been the best period in terms of success in the Serb’s career.
Earlier this week, Becker gave hints that the partnership might be coming to an end.
“I truly enjoyed the last three years,” the six-time Grand Slam champion told the Daily Mail. “I had a blast. I was in my element and I will continue to be in my element in the future. No regrets. It was an unbelievable ride,” he said.
After the announcement, Becker took to Twitter to appreciate the mutual decision.
Pepe Imaz and Marian Vajda remain on Djokovic’s team, but it’s unclear who will replace Becker.
Djokovic had the unfortunate habit of losing after reaching the finals of a Grand slam, a habit which was turned around by Becker’s appointment. But now, probably, Djokovic is looking for a fresh approach.