Stefanos Tsitsipas hires Novak Djokovic’s former coach after French Open early exit

Stefanos Tsitsipas is facing a low point in his career. The Greek, former World No. 3, was eliminated in the second round of the 2025 French Open by 23-year-old qualifier Matteo Gigante, who surprised him with a tough five-set battle. It’s the latest blow of what has been an underwhelming season for Tsitsipas, who will be out of the Top 20 for the first time since 2018. 

However, the former French Open finalist didn’t waste time to make a change. He has already appointed Goran Ivanisevic as his coach for the grass season. Ivanisevic is a former Wimbledon champion and also worked with Novak Djokovic, helping him win nine of his 24 Grand Slam titles. 

“This exciting collaboration comes just in time for the 2025 grass court season, as the Greek star looks to elevate his performance on one of the most prestigious surfaces in the sport,” the Iconico Talent Agency said in a statement, which Tsitsipas posted on Instagram.

Most recently, Ivanisevic had a short stint with Elena Rybakina this season. The Croatian has also coached Marin Cilic to his only major title at the 2014 US Open, as well as Tomas Berdych and Milos Raonic.

Stefanos Tsitsipas reacts during his second round match at Roland Garros (Getty Images)

According to initial reports by Greek journalist Vicky Georgatou, Ivanisevic’s partnership with Tsitsipas “has no duration and will initially be a trial.” He will also be the “absolute boss” as the only coach on Tsitsipas’ team. 

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Tsitsipas will look for redemption on grass 

This season, Tsitsipas has only won a title, the Dubai Championships in March, but he has suffered early exits in Madrid and Rome (second round), while reaching the quarter finals in Barcelona and Monte Carlo. He also lost in the first round of the Australian Open. 

“I still want to be the best player in the world and I still want to do great things around this sport that I chose to play. My attention and focus is always to try and improve any aspect of my game,” Tsitsipas said after his loss to Gigante. 

His next focus will be the grass season. Historically, Tsitsipas hasn’t enjoyed good results on grass. In Wimbledon, his best results have been reaching the fourth round. Ivanisevic will be in his coaching box for the first time at the Halle Open, which starts on June 16.