“The Best Coach”: Novak Djokovic Credits Goran Ivanisevic and Physio for Recent Success

Novak Djokovic raised the bar even higher as he won his 35th Masters 1000 title after he defeated Milos Raonic 1-6 6-3 6-4 in the finals of the Western & Southern Open. Djokovic created and matched several records en route to the title. He extended his unbeaten in the 2020 season to 23-0. Djokovic equaled Rafael Nadal’s record of most Masters 1000 titles. And he is the only player to win all Masters twice.

Djokovic continued his form, which started at the ATP Cup, guiding Serbia to the trophy. Then a record 8th Australian Open followed and a fifth Dubai tennis championship came his way. So from the first day of the season, Djokovic has been in his prime.

“I would like to thank my team obviously for hanging in there” – Novak Djokovic

In his post-match speech, Djokovic thanked his physio Ulises Badio and coach Goran Ivanisevic. Throughout the Cincinnati Masters, Djokovic had issues with his neck. He earlier complained of having a sore neck and almost in every match he has had to call his physio to assist him with the neck. 

“I would like to thank my team obviously for hanging in there. Tough match yesterday three hours. Uli has done a great work last night and this morning to make sure that I will be able to play today.” Djokovic said

Djokovic had a few cheeky words for Ivanisevic as well. He did call Ivanisevic the best coach in the world but also called him the worst Uno cards player in the world. A funny little insight from Djokovic about Ivanisevic.

“Goran, Thank you, you’re the best coach but the worst Uno cards player in the world.” Djokovic said

Ivanisevic became Djokovic’s coach in 2019 and has enjoyed a successful run winning two Australian Open titles and a Wimbledon. 

Djokovic doesn’t have much time to recover as he has to get ready for the US Open. He plays Damir Dzumhur in the first round on Monday. Djokovic will still be a little worried about his neck as the five-setters can take a toll on your body. Nevertheless, Djokovic will go in as a heavy favorite for the Grand Slam.