Former world No.1 Novak Djokovic has added Radek Stepanek to his coaching team for the new season.
The announcement followed mounting speculation about the two working together on the tour. Stepanek announced his retirement earlier this month and has been linked to Djokovic’s team by multiple sources. In the past Djokovic has described the Czech 39-year-old as one of his best friends on the tour.
“Radek is one of my very close friends on the tour and I was always impressed with his level of determination, passion and love for the sport. The fact that he just recently retired at the age of 37 speaks volumes of his love for the game. He has lot of experience and knowledge, and he has played on a high level for many years. I am excited to join our forces together and cannot wait to compete again having a new team to back me up,” Djokovic said in a statement.
News of the partnership was confirmed in a Instagram Live video by Djokovic. Speaking to fans from his training gym in Monte Carlo, towards the end of the video the Serbian held a discussion with Stepanek. During a well humoured exchanged between the two, they reenacted how the agreement was made between them both.
“I’m actually looking for another coach. I don’t know what you have in mind, but If you have nothing better to do, maybe we can give it a shot? Maybe you can be my coach?” Djokovic said to Stepanek.
The response from the Czech was a straightforward yes. During his career, Stepanek has played in 58 grand slam main draws and won five ATP titles. In 2006 he rose to a high of eighth in the world. He has also won 18 trophies in the doubles, including two in the majors.
“I’ve been resting quite a lot the past few weeks, so why not give it a shot.” He said about working with the Serbian.
It is unclear as to how Stepanek will fit into the team. One rumour circulated by Darren Cahill, who coaches Simona Halep, was that he would support Djokovic outside of the major tournaments. Although there has been no official confirmation about the setup. Andre Agassi, who has been mentoring the 30-year-old since May, will continue his role.
“On Andre’s suggestion I pursued Radek, therefore I am sure the two of them will work well together. The new season is about to start and there is a long way to go back to where I left off.” The 12-time grand slam champion explained.
The appointment of Agassi occurred after Djokovic dismissed three key members of his coaching team following a lull in his results. This year is the first time he has failed to reach the last four of any grand slam tournament since 2006.
Djokovic hasn’t played on the tour since the Wimbledon Championships after struggling with an elbow problem. Joining the likes of Andy Murray, Stan Wawrinka and Kei Nishikori to end their year prematurely due to injury.
The first test of the new team will be his planned return at the Qatar Open in the first week of January. Prior to Qatar, Djokovic will also play in the Mubadala World Tennis Championship. An exhibition event taking place in the UAE at the end of December.
