The formerly invincible Novak Djokovic experienced a dip in form over the past six months during which he eventually lost his top spot in the rankings to Andy Murray. For any other player, a year that consisted of seven titles, two of which were majors, would be a resounding success, but it was clear as the year went on that Djokovic was not at the top of his game. When the news broke earlier this week that Djokovic and Becker would be splitting up it didn’t come as total shock considering his failings over the last few months. Becker even mentioned in an interview with Eurosport that Djokovic basically didn’t work hard enough on the practice court to see the results he would have hoped to see from years past.
Either way, it’s clear that one of the world’s best needs a fresh set of eyes on his game. Luckily here at MyTennisLessons we have some of the countries best tennis coaches who make it their life’s work to get the most out their students. Sure, they’re mostly used to helping little Johnny smooth out his ground stroke or whipping parents back in shape who have been away from the game for a while, but let’s see what we can dig up for poor ole Nole.
Coaching Fit
A feminine touch may be just what Djokovic needs. Andy Murray made that move with former great Amalie Mauresmo (which didn’t exactly work out however…) so maybe Novak will find this is just the change he needed. Also, considering Becker noted Djokovic’s questionable work ethic on the practice court recently, Elona would almost certainly remedy that. She mentions in her bio that her “approach of teaching is very serious: I believe you have to do your best on the court if you want to learn.” Enough joking around Djoker, Elona is going to whip you into shape.
Location
I’m not sure anyone has ever mentioned New Jersey as an off-season destination but maybe a bit of grit is what Nole needs. And sure, he could enjoy the finer things in life just a hop, skip, and a jump away in NYC.
What Other Students Are Saying
Steven P. says of Elona: “She will tailor your lessons based on your progress and identifies problems and works with you to overcome them.” Maybe she can help him overcome Novak’s newfound Andy Murray puzzle.
Coaching Fit
Maybe 40 years of experience from a lifelong Texan is the kind of real world experience that could help Novak along. A an MTL eldersatesmen, Jerry has logged over 150 hour with us and would be willing to bring that dedication to the table with Novak. Jerry says in his bio that “To understand what shots they should play, they need to know what is the highest percentage shot they should play when they are at a certain position on the court.” Djokovic could have used that advice when playing Murray in last month ATP World Finals.
Location
Austin, TX might be a good vibes kind of place to get his head right and avoid the cold weather cropping up throughout the rest of the US and Europe. Breakfast tacos and brisket might not fall within Djokovic’s strict diet however, so we may need to reevaluate.
What Other Students Are Saying
Melissa U. says of Jerry: “Jerry is like a Tennis-whisperer! He connects the mind and body to the sport in a way that was soulful and impactful.” That sounds like a foundation Djokovic once preached but has lost along the way. He may need a reminder from a sage tennis lifer.
Coaching Fit
On the other end of the spectrum, we have coach Zach who would bring a youthfulness that Djokovic may be lacking. He hasn’t seemed to be having much fun on the court lately so maybe he needs to loosen up a bit with a young coach in sunny SoCal. Besides a renewed sense of youthfulness, Zach explains that with his focus on “the importance of physical maintenance and fitness, I bring a unique combination of high-level playing experience and fitness training to the game.” The fitness-obsessed Djokovic and Zach could be like two peas in a pod.
Location
Who doesn’t need to escape to California to recharge the batteries? In a town of stars he would just be another face allowing him to refocus. Bring the baby, bring the wife and enjoy yourself a bit Nole.
What Other Students Are Saying
Terrell T says of Zach: “As a former professional athlete Zach continues to impress me with his overall patient and ability to be playful and coach all at the same time.” You hear that Novak, other professional athletes are reaping the benefits. You’re up next.
Coaching Fit
Carl might not have as many years of experience as Jerry or the sunny SoCal vibes of Zach, but Carl is a coaching machine. A man coming up on 1000+ hours of teaching with MyTennisLessons should get the attention of Mr. Djokovic. There is a reason so many people come back for more lessons with Carl. Carl explains that he “was contracted as a pro at La Beach Hotel Accra, Ghana for 11 years and traveled with teams all over Africa and the UK.” So besides being one of the hardest working pros around he understands the travel grind of an ATP season. These two can relate to each other.
Location
Just outside of Dallas, TX might be an ideal place to spend the winter from a weather standpoint but maybe not from a cultural one. They do say stepping out of your comfort zone will make you a better person in the long run. Not sure Novak is a cowboy hats and boots kind of guy though.
What Other Students are Saying
Rama V says of Carl: “I recommend him to anyone either new to tennis or trying to get back into playing again. Lastly, he works with your schedule and location which is an added plus for the busy person.” So after Novak takes a much needed break, Carl will be ready to get him back on track and he’ll be able to schedule around his busy promotional schedule. Sounds like a win-win to me.
