Novak Djokovic issues emotional statement as he salutes key duo following split

Novak Djokovic speaks to the media

Novak Djokovic has paid tribute to his former agents Edoardo Artaldi and Elena Cappellaro after they opted to part company after more than a decade of success.

Italian Artaldi and his partner Cappellaro have managed Djokovic’s off-court affairs for 13 years, but it emerged in September that they have gone their separate ways and Djokovic confirmed in November that they have indeed opted to split.

“Dodi” – as Artaldi is fondly known as in the Djokovic camp – was the Serbian’s chief-of-staff for 23 of his 24 Grand Slam titles as well as his surge to No 1 in the ATP Rankings, but the tennis great admitted at the Paris Masters that they have split, stating: “I’m entering a new chapter about the off-court approach. The transition is not easy but I’m moving forward.”

And on Tuesday he issued an emotional statement on Instagram to thank Artaldi and Cappellaro for their work and friendship over the years.

He wrote: “Dear Elena and Edoardo,

“It’s difficult to describe everything we have been through together for 13 years of collaboration in one message…

“My appreciation and love for you two personally goes beyond any professional relationship. What you did for me and my family privately and amount of care and empathy you had all these years especially towards my wife and kids is something very special for me and I will never forget that.

“Together, we created history of tennis and reached incredible heights in this sport. Your contribution to the success is vital and I thank you from the bottom of my heart ❤️

“You will always remain in my heart as dearest friends and part of my family.

“Grandissimo abbraccio 🤗 e tanto amore 🧡”

READ MORE: Novak Djokovic has a new agent set and he is set to make big changes

Although Djokovic is yet to officially confirm who will lead him during the “new chapter off-court approach”, he has made an off-the-cuff comment suggesting that Mark Madden is the man who will take charge of his affairs.

Madden has appeared alongside Djokovic at several high-profile events in recent months, including the All-Star Ryder Cup event in Rome after his US Open success in September.

“My caddy Mark Madden is my business advisor,” the 24-time Grand Slam winner said during the golf event.

“He lives in Wentworth, he grew up with Luke Donald and Luke asked me to come and I accepted the invitation.”

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