Novak Djokovic's wife Jelena refuses to "give up" after Jannik Sinner hires Serb's former team members following doping saga

Novak Djokovic's wife Jelena has vowed not to back down after Jannik Sinner hired her husband's former team members. This move came after the Italian sacked his previous physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, and fitness trainer, Umberto Ferrara, due to their involvement in his doping controversy.

Sinner tested positive twice for Clostebol, a banned anabolic steroid, during the Indian Wells Masters in March 2024. However, he avoided a ban by explaining to the ITIA that Clostebol entered his system through physiotherapist Giacomo Naldi, who had used an over-the-counter spray containing the substance (purchased by fitness trainer Umberto Ferrara) to treat his own injury.

The World No. 1 subsequently fired both Naldi and Ferrara and rumors began circulating following his US Open victory that he would hire Djokovic’s former fitness coach, Marco Panichi. On September 16, he confirmed that Panichi, along with Ulises Badio (physiotherapist)—who had also worked with the Serb—would be joining his team.

Novak Djokovic's wife, Jelena, has made her feelings clear about the situation. She took to Instagram and commented under a post that contained the news of Sinner "stealing" the Serb's former team members, writing:

"I won't give up." (Translated from Serbian)

Novak Djokovic pays tribute to Marco Panichi and Ulises Badio after split

Novak Djokovic pictured with Marco Panichi | Image Source: Getty

Marco Panichi worked with Novak Djokovic from 2017 until May of this year when the Serb ended their partnership while Ulises Badio left the team at the end of 2022 after more than five years together.

In May, Djokovic paid tribute to Panichi on Instagram, reminiscing about their time together and thanking him for his dedicated service.

"What amazing years of collaboration we’ve had. We reached the summit, won titles, broken records. But most of all, I have enjoyed our most “ordinary” days of training in and out of the gym. Endless hours of “carciofini” and laughs that made me feel super motivated to prepare for success," he wrote.

"Grazie Romanista (as Goran calls you) for all the energy, effort and time you invested in making me the best possible player and person I can be. Much love," he added.

The 24-time Grand Slam champion similarly thanked Badio on his birthday last year, expressing how fortunate he felt to have him by his side.

"Appreciation post for this amazing man Ulyses Badio- ULI! Thank you for everything you have brought to me and the team," he wrote on Instagram.

"You have always been so dedicated and caring. I have been fortunate to have you by my side for many years. Grazie amico. Happy birthday," he added.