Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas has confirmed the end of his brief coaching partnership with Goran Ivanisevic, announcing his return to the guidance of his father, Apostolos Tsitsipas.
The split follows a challenging period for the former world No. 3, characterized by disappointing results and public criticism from Ivanisevic regarding Tsitsipas’ physical conditioning.
“Working with Goran Ivanisevic was brief but an intense experience and a truly valuable chapter in my journey,” Tsitsipas, a two-time Grand Slam finalist who has recently fallen out of the top 20, wrote in a statement posted on Instagram.
“I’m thankful for the time, effort and energy he dedicated to me and my team. As we are now [going] 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,” he said. “I wish him nothing but the very best moving forward.”
The partnership began in late May following Tsitsipas’ second-round exit at the French Open. Ivanisevic, the 2001 Wimbledon champion and former coach of Novak Djokovic, guided Tsitsipas through the grass-court season, including the Halle Open and Wimbledon. Tsitsipas’ Wimbledon run, however, was cut short when he retired during his opening match against Frenchman Valentin Royer, trailing by two sets to love due to a back injury.
Ivanisevic on Tsitsipas: “I have never seen a more unfit player”
The amicable tone of Tsitsipas’ statement contrasts sharply with recent remarks made by Ivanisevic. In speaking to Serbian Sport Klub, Ivanisevic didn’t mince words when discussing the 26-year-old’s physique. “He wants, but he doesn’t do anything. All ‘I want, I want’, but I don’t see this progress. I was shocked, I have never seen a more unfit player in my life. With this knee, I am three times fitter than him. This is really bad.”
Upon news of the split, Ivanisevic confirmed to The Tennis Gazette that Tsitsipas’s decision to reunite with his father was “the right one.” “We had a nice conversation. Nothing negative. He is returning to his father, to his roots. He achieved his best results with his father. His father knows him better than anyone, so I think it is the right decision. I hope he finds his place again and I wish him all the best for the future.”
This return to his father’s coaching fold signals Tsitsipas’ belief that a familiar and trusted environment is crucial for regaining his top form. Apostolos Tsitsipas has been a consistent presence in his son’s career, guiding him during his most successful moments.
Tsitsipas’ struggles with injury and consistency have been a significant concern this season, culminating in his premature Wimbledon exit. The Greek player is now scheduled to play in Toronto starting this Sunday, aiming to regain momentum and find stability on the tour.
Related: Stefanos Tsitsipas at a Career Crossroads Amid Injury and Slump in Form
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