Djokovic team selection is a family affair

Novak Djokovic has added a personal touch to his team selection, with the Serb considering his advisors and coaches as close relations.

The world No. 1 has made another quick change in the lineup prior to his start at this week’s Rome Masters, taking back a long-time physio who has done two terms with Team Djoko while dispatching a long-time Italian mentor.

Old faithful Miljan Amanovic is back on board for “certain weeks” this season after serving in 2007-2017 and 2018-2022.

Djokivic has also parted ways with coach Goran Ivanisevc and sacked his Italian-centric PR team.

The sackings which began after last season, have also included coach Goran Ivanisevic and his publicity team.

“I’m a proponent of having a quality team and entourage around you, having people who are experts in their field, who have experience, who have knowledge, who also understand psychology as well,” the Rome top seed said.

“They know how to emotionally approach you when you need help or when you need space.”

Djokovic has already squeezed in a few training sessions on the clay of the Foro Italico as he aims for a seventh title at the pre-French Open test.

He is playing Rome after skipping Madrid following his semi-final exit to Casper Ruud in Monte Carlo.  

“I’m on a good route to peak at Roland Garros in Paris. Hopefully here in Rome I can play better than I did in Monte-Carlo.

“The wish, obviously, is always to go far, but let’s see.”