Novak Djokovic sacks his coaching team

The 29-year-old will no longer work with coach Marian Vajda, fitness coach Gebhard Phil Gritsch or physiotherapist Miljan Amanovic, but the Serbian released a statement thanking the trio for the part they have played in his success over recent years.

“I am forever grateful to Marian, GG and Miljan for decade of friendship, professionalism and commitment to my career goals,” Djokovic said. “Without their support I couldn’t have achieved these professional heights. I know they completely dedicated themselves and their lives to help me achieve my dreams and they were always my driving force and wind in my back.

“It was not an easy decision, but we all felt that we need a change. I am very grateful and proud of our relationship and unbreakable bond that we built through years of mutual love, respect and understanding. They are my family and that will never change.”

Djokovic dominated the men's game in the first half of last year, seemingly cementing his status as the best player in the world. But victory at last year's French Open proved to be a final high point of the season, with Novak's forming tailing off so dramatically that he lost his World No. 1 ranking to Andy Murray in November.

And 2017 has also started slowly for Djokovic, with a title at the Qatar Open in early January the only time he has gone beyond the quarter-finals at five tournaments so far this year.

Such a slide in form led to coach Vajda admitting that it is best for all parties to move on:

Replacement coaches have not yet been named, although Djokovic has described his reshuffle as "shock therapy", hinting at a new appointment.

However, in the immediate future Djokovic has confirmed that he will tour without a coach: