Struggling Novak Djokovic splits with coach Andre Agassi

Reuters

Former world number one Novak Djokovic has parted company with head coach Andre Agassi after struggling to rediscover his form following a long elbow injury layoff.

"With only the best intentions I tried to help Novak. We far too often found ourselves agreeing to disagree," American Agassi said in a statement broadcast by ESPN.

"I wish him only the best moving forward."

The split leaves Djokovic`s coaching staff down to Czech Radek Stepanek, who joined on a part-time basis after eight times grand slam winner Agassi came on board ahead of last year`s French Open.

Djokovic, the winner of 12 grand slams, suffered a sharp decline in form after lifting his maiden French Open title in 2016 to complete a career slam.

After failing to retain his title at Roland Garros, the Serb retired against Czech Tomas Berdych in the Wimbledon quarter-finals and was sidelined for six months with a recurring elbow injury.

Following a last-16 Australian Open exit to South Korean youngster Chung Hyeon in January, the 30-year-old Djokovic had elbow surgery but has struggled to make an impact since returning to action.

He suffered successive defeats this month to Japan`s Taro Daniel in the first round at Indian Wells and to Frenchman Benoit Pare at the Miami Open, looking a pale shadow of his former vintage self.

Djokovic is due to play at the Monte Carlo Masters, which is scheduled for April 14-22.