Following a successful trial at the Doha Open, Arthur Fils has confirmed that Goran Ivanisevic will join his coaching team for the upcoming clay season. The world No. 31 announced the news after reaching the Miami Masters 1000 semifinals, with Ivanisevic set to travel to Monaco and Rome ahead of Roland Garros.
Arthur Fils, back from a nine-month injury layoff due to a back stress fracture from last year's Roland Garros, has impressed since his February return, reaching the Doha final, Indian Wells quarterfinals, and Miami semifinals (losing to Jiri Lehecka). He holds a 13-5 hard-court record this year.
In post-Miami semifinal comments, Fils revealed: “Goran will join us for the clay season. He will come to Monaco, then Ivan [Cinkus] will return, I think, to Rome. We will spend a few weeks with Goran, then a few weeks with Ivan.” Ivan Cinkus remains his primary coach, with the former Novak Djokovic coach (12 Grand Slams) acting as a clay specialist after their positive Doha trial.
Fils reiterated his admiration for Ivanisevic, previously calling him a 'hell of a champion.' He also addressed mental hurdles post-injury: “I know I need a lot of energy to play my best tennis. But do I really need that much? It’s a difficult balance.” Recent matches like saving four match points against Tommy Paul in Miami quarters tested his resilience, but he aims to refine energy management with his team for Roland Garros success.