Jimmy Connors makes feelings clear on prospect of coaching Novak Djokovic

Jimmy Connors has declared that it would be a “pleasure” and an “honour” if his fellow tennis great Novak Djokovic were to even consider him for a coaching role. 

The eight-time Grand Slam champion recognised, though, that he is “out of the tennis business” and expressed he loves “everything about” his life and how he currently spends his time.

Djokovic revealed last week that he had split with long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic and the news has come as a surprise to many. The Serbian shared a massively successful partnership with the 2001 Wimbledon champion, who joined his coaching team in June 2019.

“I remember clearly the moment I invited Goran to be part of my team. It was back in 2018, and Marian [Vajda] and I were looking to innovate and bring some serve magic to our duo,” the 36-year-old wrote on Instagram.

“In fact, not only we brought serve, but also lots of laughter, fun, year-end No 1 rankings, record-breaking achievements and 12 more Grand Slams (and a few finals) to the count since then. Did I mention a bit of drama too?

“Goran and I decided to stop working together a few days ago. Our on-court chemistry had its ups and downs, but our friendship was always rock solid.

“In fact, I am proud to say (not sure he is) that apart from winning tournaments together, we also had a side battle in (the board game) Parchisi going on… for many years. And – that tournament never stops for us. Thanks for everything my friend. Love you.”

READ MORE: Novak Djokovic’s next coach: Marian Vajda, John McEnroe or Novak Djokovic to coach himself?

In a conversation with his son Brett on his Advantage Connors podcast, Connors indicated he would be open to working with Djokovic when asked about the possibility of replacing Ivanisevic.

“I’m out of the tennis business Brett. I love doing a tennis podcast and hanging with you and talking tennis but you know, if the opportunity arose, it would certainly be a pleasure, an honour if he would even throw my name in the hat,” the 71-year-old American said.

“But as far as it goes, we were just talking about Danielle Collins and how life changes and life goes on and right now, I’m happy doing what I’m doing now. I love my life, I love everything about it.”

While the former world No 1 has not been actively involved in the sport for some time, he does have coaching experience, having worked with Andy Roddick and Maria Sharapova.

Connors coached Roddick between July 2006 and March 2008 and helped his fellow American reach the final at the 2006 US Open. His partnership with Sharapova, meanwhile, was short lived as it lasted just one match in 2013.

Djokovic has explained he and Ivanisevic had “exhausted” their cooperation, while he also suggested he may not appoint a coach to replace the 52-year-old Croatian.

“I still don’t have a clear idea who a new coach would be, or whether there will be one at all,” the world No 1 said last week at a press conference in Belgrade about a documentary on his former mentor and coach Nikki Pilic

“I’ve had coaches since I was a kid, now I am trying to feel by myself what I need, what I feel most comfortable with. You will be informed in case someone joins the team.”

READ MORE: Novak Djokovic considering ‘shock’ coaching appointment that will shake up tennis