In a move that has surprised many in the tennis world, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Goran Ivanisevic have abruptly ended their coaching partnership after just 2 tournaments, continuing the Greek star’s challenging 2025 season.
The announcement, made via Tsitsipas’ Instagram story on Wednesday, comes on the heels of a disappointing Wimbledon campaign and suggests deeper tensions, as both parties have aired contrasting perspectives on their brief collaboration.
Tsitsipas, 26, expressed gratitude for Ivanisevic’s contributions, describing their time together as a “brief but intense experience and a truly valuable chapter in my journey.”
He praised the 2001 Wimbledon champion, noting, “I have only respect for Goran — not just for what he’s achieved in tennis, but also for who he is as a person.” Despite the respectful tone, the split is evidence of a disconnect during their short tenure, with Ivanisevic openly questioning Tsitsipas’ preparation and commitment.
The Croatian coach, who joined Tsitsipas’ team after Roland Garros, was tasked with reversing the Greek’s fortunes following a string of lacklustre results. Tsitsipas, a two-time Grand Slam finalist, has struggled to maintain his elite status in 2025, posting a 19-13 record and slipping to No. 29 in the PIF ATP Rankings—his lowest ranking since July 2018.
His season highlights include a title run in Dubai, where he defeated Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 6-3, and quarter-final appearances in Indian Wells and Monte Carlo. However, these positives were overshadowed by early exits at the Australian Open (1st Rd.), Roland Garros (2nd Rd.), and Wimbledon, where he retired in the 1st Rd. against Valentin Royer, trailing 6-3, 6-2, due to a recurring back injury.
Ivanisevic was not afraid to offer candid criticism, particularly after the Wimbledon retirement. Speaking to Sport Club studio, he expressed frustration, stating, “He wants, but he doesn’t do anything. All ‘I want, I want’, but I don’t see that progress. I was shocked. I have never seen a more unprepared player in my life.” Ivanisevic emphasized that Tsitsipas’ return to the top 10 hinges on addressing off-court issues, including discipline and mindset, rather than just technical adjustments.
Embed from Getty ImagesTsitsipas, in turn, hinted at philosophical differences in a recent SDNA interview, where he spoke cryptically about the challenges of working with “dictators” and “people who speak negatively.” While not naming Ivanisevic directly, his comments certainly seem directed toward the Croatian’s demanding approach.
“When I work with the right people, with people that I choose and make me feel comfortable, there is a mood,” Tsitsipas said, stressing the importance of a “friendly atmosphere” and long-term relationships akin to family. He contrasted Ivanisevic’s style with that of his fitness coach, Fred Lefevre, whom he described as “a member of my family” and plans to work with for life.
The split leaves Tsitsipas at a crossroads as he prepares for the North American hard-court swing, starting with the National Bank Open in Toronto on July 27. Currently 24th in the PIF ATP Live Race To Turin, he faces an uphill battle to qualify for the Nitto ATP Finals, an event he won in 2019.
His ongoing back injury, which he admitted could be “career-threatening,” adds further uncertainty. Tsitsipas has acknowledged personal growth, noting after Roland Garros that he played “immaturely at times” and was “too impulsive.” Yet, as he returns to working with his father, Apostolos, as his primary coach, questions linger about whether he can rediscover the consistency that once saw him peak at No. 3 in the world.
For now, Tsitsipas is in Athens, regrouping and reflecting. A cryptic post on X hinted at rediscovering his rhythm before the Wimbledon injury, writing, “You finally find your rhythm, right before the rain delay.”
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