The French Open is barely underway, but for Novak Djokovic, the headlines aren't just about his pursuit of another Grand Slam title – they're swirling around a coaching shake-up that has left a fellow Serbian player feeling "shocked" and "disappointed." The world No. 1 has now spoken out, attempting to smooth ruffled feathers while securing a hard-fought victory.
- Novak Djokovic officially confirmed Viktor Troicki as his new coach for Roland Garros.
- Troicki's sudden departure from Miomir Kecmanovic's team sparked significant controversy.
- Djokovic personally reached out to Kecmanovic to provide his perspective on the situation.
- The reigning champion battled through a tough first round, marking his 82nd Grand Slam appearance.
The Coaching Carousel: Troicki's Controversial Move
The tennis community was buzzing when Novak Djokovic announced Viktor Troicki had joined his coaching staff ahead of the French Open. This move filled a void for Djokovic, who had been without a coach since his split with Andy Murray in 2025. However, Troicki's arrival wasn't without drama.
Prior to linking up with Djokovic, Troicki had been coaching fellow Serbian player Miomir Kecmanovic since 2025, and before that, junior talent Hamad Medjedovic from 2022 to 2024. The timing of the switch, just before a major, has been a major talking point.
Kecmanovic's "Shock" and Disappointment
The abrupt nature of Troicki's departure left Miomir Kecmanovic less than impressed. After winning a Challenger event on Sunday, Kecmanovic learned on Monday that his coach was ending their cooperation, only to see him with Djokovic in Paris by Tuesday. "To tell you the truth, that decision confused me, not to say – shocked me!" Kecmanovic candidly stated.
He further expressed his profound disappointment: "Everything is clear here, I don’t have to add much, I’m very disappointed." This sentiment highlights the personal impact such professional changes can have, particularly for developing players relying on coaching stability. Kecmanovic has since moved forward with Ognjen Jovanovic as his head coach.
Djokovic's Diplomatic Touch
When pressed on Kecmanovic's comments, Novak Djokovic revealed he had taken steps to address the situation directly. "We had communication, I didn’t see him live," Djokovic confirmed. "I contacted him, we talked and I told him from my perspective what happened and how it is."
While Djokovic offered his side of the story, he maintained a boundary regarding the specifics of the split between Kecmanovic and Troicki. "How he accepted it and what is between him and Victor – I will not go into that. That’s all I can say," he stated, demonstrating a diplomatic approach to a sensitive issue.
A Lifelong Bond: Why Troicki Was the Choice
Djokovic's decision to bring Troicki on board stems from a deeply personal and professional history. The two Serbians have known each other since the tender age of eight or nine, sharing decades of on-court and off-court experiences.
"Viktor knows me as a friend – we’ve known each other since the age of eight or nine," Djokovic explained. Their bond extends through playing against each other, as doubles partners, and most notably, as members of the Davis Cup team that secured victory. Troicki also served as selector and coach when they won a gold medal together. This long-standing relationship was the crucial factor.
"I didn’t want to bring some unknown people, I don’t have the patience for that," Djokovic emphasized. He sought someone who intimately understands his game, his personality, and who could contribute immediately with their shared history and experience. This choice underscores Djokovic's preference for trusted familiarity in his inner circle.
Grand Slam History & A Gritty French Open Win
Amidst the coaching drama, Novak Djokovic also created more history at the French Open. His first-round match marked his 82nd Grand Slam tournament appearance, surpassing Roger Federer's record for the most appearances in men’s singles at the majors. This is Djokovic's 22nd consecutive year playing at Roland Garros.
Despite these milestones, his opening match against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard was far from straightforward. Djokovic had to fight back from a set down, ultimately securing a 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, 6-4 victory. He hadn't lost an opening-round set at Roland Garros since 2010.
"I want to congratulate Giovanni for a great match," Djokovic praised his opponent. He acknowledged Perricard's formidable serve, admitting he had "no chance" in the first set. Djokovic credited his ability to "stay concentrated and wait for an opportunity" and finding his best game and return at the right moment to turn the tide.
