Less than a month after the ending of his collaboration with Novak Djokovic, Boris Becker has opened the door for a future reunion with the world No.2.
Becker spoke about his future plans in India, where he recently launched a new shoe brand named after him. Shortly after the launch, he travelled to Kolkata to attend a pre-event press conference for the Tata Steel Kolkata Marathon. During that press conference, the former world No.1 spoke fondly about his work with Djokovic, refusing to rule out working with him again.
“Any player-coach relationship doesn’t last forever. We had three successful years and won many tournaments. It was time to go separate ways. I call him a very good friend and he can always call me when he needs me.” Said Becker.
“We both decided there was a time we needed a break. Who knows what will happen in a year or two.”
The 49-year-old guided Djokovic to 25 ATP titles, including six grand slam trophies, during their three-year partnership. On December 6th it was confirmed that both men have decided to stop working together following a roller-coaster 2016. Troubled by injury as well as other factors, Djokovic was dethroned from the top of the Emirates rankings by Andy Murray in November. In his final match of the season at the ATP Tour finals, the Serbian was swept away in straight sets by the new world No.1. The straightforward loss was one that Becker was highly critical of.
“I couldn’t believe how badly he (Djokovic) played on the Sunday given the circumstances. That was probably, under my guidance, the worst match he has played.” He recently told The Daily Mail.
It is uncertain if there will ever be another Djokovic-Becker partnership on the ATP Tour. For the foreseeable future, Djokovic will be coached by Marian Vajda, who has been a member of his camp since 2006. He will also be supported by Spanish coach Pepe Imaz, who has become a more prominent figure in Djokovic’s team in recent months.
Djokovic will begin his 2017 quest to reclaim the world number one ranking in Qatar at the Doha Open. Seeded second, he could face a showdown with Murray if both men progress to the final.
