Novak Djokovic has said he’d like his next coach to be someone who has been through similar experiences like he has.
The world No2 faced reporters in Madrid on Sunday for the first time since he announced his split with his coach Marian Vajda, fitness trainer Gebhard Gritsch and physio Miljan Amanovic.
While he admits he has no plans of rushing into a decision regarding the appointment of his next coach, the Serb, who parted ways with Boris Becker end of last year, hinted that he might hire another legend.
“I assume it’s going to be someone that has been through similar experiences like I have, so… Not too many people in the past of tennis have managed to get to that stage and play at that level, so I’ll see,” said Djokovic.
“I’m thinking slowly and thoroughly about it. I don’t want to take things with a rush.”
Here are some suggestions Djokovic may want to consider…
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Andre Agassi
Why?
If Djokovic is looking for someone who has been through what he has been then Agassi sounds like a great fit. Grand slam champion? Check. Ex-world No1? Check. Has suffered highs and lows in tennis? Check. Has a killer return game? Check. Need we say more?
Likelihood?
Highly unlikely. Agassi has made it clear he has no intention of going on the road. He is settled, with his wife Steffi Graf, in Nevada, where they have opened schools and have lots of philanthropic projects. But if Agassi ever considered doing some travelling on tour again, it should definitely be with Djokovic.
This would be cool: Guga and Djokovic.
Gustavo Kuerten
Why?
If Djokovic now is all about peace, love and happiness, then Guga is the perfect guy for that. Is there anyone more cheerful and positive than the Brazilian ex-world No1 and three-time French Open champion? They seem to get along as well judging from their work together with their common sponsor Peugeot.
Likelihood?
Unlikely. Guga has never shown much interest in coaching but there’s always a first time for everything, no?
Edberg had a good stint coaching Federer.
Stefan Edberg
Why?
The Swedish six-time grand slam champion had a successful stint with Roger Federer, where he greatly aided his attacking game – something Djokovic can definitely benefit from. Edberg won’t be willing to travel year-round, but perhaps would be willing to commit to some weeks?
Likelihood?
Possible but his loyalties ultimately lie with Federer.
Game, set and Mats!
Mats Wilander
Why?
Having spent the last several years working as a pundit for Eurosport, Wilander is very well-versed in today’s tennis world. The seven-time grand slam champion has some coaching experience with Tatiana Golovin and Paul-Henri Mathieu but his recent stint with Madison Keys only lasted a few weeks.
Likelihood?
Possible.
Solid match, no?
Goran Ivanisevic
Why?
The Croat gets along well with Djokovic. Ivanisevic, the 2001 Wimbledon champion and ex-world No2, guided Marin Cilic to the 2014 US Open title and is now with Tomas Berdych – although that partnership is not doing so great. Any chance Goran jumps ship and joins the Djokovic camp? Could be a great match.
Likelihood?
Not unthinkable.