German great Boris Becker has no interest in serving as Novak Djokovic's main coach for a second stint.
The men's World No. 1 is currently without a full-time coach after splitting with Goran Ivanisevic following a shock third-round defeat to Italian lucky loser Luca Nardi in Indian Wells.
Ivanisevic worked as Djokovic's official coach from 2019 and helped him win nine Grand Slams. He oversaw the Serbian's most successful period of his career.
In addition to shattering the men's Grand Slam record, Djokovic has also won the most Masters titles and spent more weeks at No. 1 than any other singles player.
But their partnership had run its course, and according to Becker, Djokovic needed "something different". The 56-year-old was rumored to be among the candidates to replace the departing Ivanisevic.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Becker distanced himself from the reports and said that he is not planning to coach Djokovic again, even though they do enjoy a very good relationship. The duo won six majors together between 2014 and 2016.
"I think he’s looking for something different right now. I’m not sure he knows exactly what that is."
"He’s always going to be a close friend of mine, we always speak about tennis. But I couldn’t possibly be his coach again because I’ve done that. It would be stepping back."
Djokovic has since been working with 2010 Davis Cup-winning teammate Nenad Zimonjic, although he has not clarified whether his countryman will be in the role in the foreseeable future.
The 36-year-old is not playing in Madrid but has been training on clay following his semifinal defeat in Monte Carlo. The six-time major champion Becker was surprised by the World No. 1's decision but stated he could be keeping himself fresh for the Olympics, which is his main priority.
"I was surprised by his Madrid decision. I think at this stage he needs matches. He needs the competition. But he has his own schedule. I think winning gold for Serbia [at the Olympics in Paris] is his main tournament so maybe he’s already scheduling himself to be still fresh for July. This could be a reason. You can never underestimate him or count him out."
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