By Erik Gudris / Wednesday, December 18, 2013

 

In a surprise announcement, Boris Becker will become the head coach of Novak Djokovic for the 2014 season.

Photo Credit: Rob Newell/CameraSport

Former world No. 1 Boris Becker will become the head coach of Novak Djokovic, starting immediately.

In a press release, Djokovic announced that the six-time Grand Slam champion will join the Serbian's team.

Read - Novak Djokovic 2013 Season Review

"I am really excited to have the opportunity to work with Boris. He is a true legend, someone who has great tennis knowledge and his experience will help me win new trophies from the Grand Slams and other tournaments," Djokovic said.

Becker himself expressed confidence in the new partnership.

"I am proud Novak invited me to become his Head Coach. I will do my best to help him reach his goals, and I am sure we can achieve great things together," Becker said.

Marian Vajda, who has been coaching Djokovic since 2006, will remain on the team. In the statement, Vajda said he felt that Djokovic needed a new head coach to help the Serbian with certain parts of his game and that he will now have more time to spend with his family.

Djokovic finished 2013 with a 74-9 record. Though he won seven ATP Tour titles, he relinquished his No. 1 ranking to Rafael Nadal late in the year. Djokovic will train with Becker in preparation for the upcoming Australian Open, where he is defending champion and which starts Jan. 13.