Novak Djokovic to hire Monica Seles as coach? Serb legend opens up

24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic has hinted at a unique coaching idea, revealing initial talks with childhood idol Monica Seles. Having had Boris Becker, Goran Ivanisevic and Andy Murray as his former coaches, Djokovic described the potential collaboration with Seles as emotionally meaningful, emphasising that it’s not meant to be a permanent arrangement.

Djokovic stressed his current schedule doesn’t require a full-time coach and that any support would likely be short-term, focused on select tournaments. Having grown up inspired by Seles—thanks to early coach Jelena Gencic, who mentored both—Djokovic said she has long been a mentor and offered him guidance during trying times.

“I’ve been stirring the pot a little, talking. We’ll see, you’ll be informed. We’ll see. These are just initial talks, and it’s more about the emotional aspect than a long-term partnership,” Djokovic said.

“That would mean a lot to me. I think you know who I’m talking about, but let’s not go into names now, so I don’t jump the gun. If it even happensWe’ve had some interesting conversations,” Djokovic added.

Novak Djokovic eases past Learner Tien

Djokovic eased past 19-year-old American Learner Tien 6-1, 7-6 (3), 6-2 on Sunday to advance to the second round of the 2025 US Open. The Serb dominated early, wrapping up the first set in just 20 minutes, but faced a stern test in the second.

Tien extended rallies and forced a marathon set that lasted nearly 80 minutes before Djokovic closed it out in a decisive tiebreak.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion required medical attention for a blister on his right big toe and admitted to feeling uncharacteristically fatigued during the match.

Still, his experience and composure proved decisive as he regained control to seal the third set comfortably. With the victory, Djokovic extended his remarkable streak to 75 consecutive first-round wins at Grand Slams in the Open Era, five of them secured in straight sets.

In the second round, Djokovic will be up against Zachary Svajda of the United States, who defeated Hungary’s Zsombor Piros 6-4, 6-2, 7-5 in the opening round.