‘Making history is not enough’ – Novak Djokovic surprised Goran Ivanisevic not named ATP Coach of the Year

Novak Djokovic has expressed apparent surprise that his coach Goran Ivanisevic missed out on the ATP Coach of the Year award.

Ivanisevic was among the four nominees for the award, which is voted for by ATP coaches.

But it was given to Darren Cahill and Simone Vagnozzi, who helped Jannik Sinner enjoy a career-best year.

He finished the season as No. 4 in the world, having started it at No. 15.

He also finished as year-end No. 1 for a record-extending eighth time.

However, the 36-year-old seemed to lament that his achievements were “not enough” for Ivanisevic to get the Coach of the Year award.

“Congratulations to Darren and Simone for a great season with Jannik,” Djokovic wrote on Instagram.

“Goran, I guess we need to win 4/4 Slams in order for you to maybe (just maybe) be considered coach of the year.

“Winning Year End #1, 3 GS [Grand Slams] and WTF [World Tour Finals] and making history of this sport is not enough, my dear coach.”

Ivanisevic was also nominated for the award last year but missed out to Carlos Alcaraz’s coach Juan Carlo Ferrero.

In October, Ivanisevic spoke about the challenges of trying to keep Djokovic motivated after so much success during his career.

“Many times we don’t agree, but it’s good to argue on the court. I love this job. Work can only be done if you love it and have the support of your family. If you don’t know how to deal with stress, which is always present, then you can’t do your job.”