Novak Djokovic has shed light on his unexpected split with long-time coach Goran Ivanisevic and described the Croatian as a “friend for life” and a “very dear person.”

The great Serbian explained he and Ivanisevic had “exhausted our cooperation”, while revealing he does not have a “clear idea” of who his new coach might be, or “whether there will be one at all.”

To the shock of the tennis world, Djokovic announced earlier this week that his massively successful partnership with 2001 Wimbledon champion Ivanisevic had come to an end. The former world No 2 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.”

Prior to his collaboration with Djokovic, Ivanisevic coached fellow Croatian Marin Cilic to his stunning 2014 US Open victory, while he also worked with Tomas Berdych and Milos Raonic.

Speaking at a press conference in Belgrade about a documentary on his former mentor and coach Nikki Pilic, Djokovic spoke about his split with Ivanisevic.

“First of all, Goran is my friend for life, mine and of my family’s. He is a very dear person for me, the end of our professional collaboration doesn’t mean that our friendship stops,” the world No 1 said.

“Our separation has been positive, as positive as a separation can be. We have come to a point where we’ve exhausted our cooperation after almost five years.

“Together, we’ve written history of our sport, we have won Slams, ended seasons as No 1 in the world, but we went through trials and tribulations as well – disqualification at the US Open, deportation from Australia.

“I will always remember that he was there for me as a person, as a human being, first and foremost, and that he brought the right set of values into our relationship. That kind of chemistry was followed by great results. I wish Goran all the best.”

The 24-time Grand Slam champion 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,” Djokovic said.

“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.”