Novak Djokovic's coaching partnership with Andy Murray faces uncertainty following his shock early exit at Indian Wells.
The all-time record Grand Slam winner crashed out in his opening match on Saturday, losing to Dutch qualifier Botic van de Zandschulp.
The defeat has raised immediate questions about the future of his coaching arrangement with Murray.
Djokovic admitted post-match that he needs to discuss plans with the former British number one and his team.
Novak Djokovic has admitted his coaching relationship with Andy Murray is uncertain
PA
Despite coming up against one of the game's greats, Van de Zandschulp looked at ease throughout most of the contest.
The Dutch outsider ran out a 2-6, 6-3, 1-6 victor against the Serbian star.
This marks Djokovic's second consecutive opening match exit.
He was previously beaten in straight sets by Matteo Berrettini at last month's Qatar Open.
The concerning pattern of early tournament defeats has intensified scrutiny on Djokovic's form and coaching arrangements.
When quizzed on his next step, Djokovic replied: "Yeah. I mean, still haven't talked with Andy and the team, so going to do that and make a plan."
This contrasts with his earlier optimism about the partnership continuing.
Prior to the tournament, Djokovic had suggested Murray would remain his coach through the clay court season.
"I think the plan is to go to the end of Roland-Garros, hopefully Wimbledon as well," he had stated.
The Serb had previously praised Murray's impact on his game at the Australian Open.
Novak Djokovic has now lost three matches in a row
Reuters
Following his defeat, Djokovic joined Alexander Zverev and Carlos Alcaraz in criticising the Indian Wells court conditions.
"The difference between the centre court and the other courts is immense," he said.
"Ball is bouncing on the center courts higher than some of the highest clay courts."
More alarmingly, the 37-year-old admitted to broader struggles: "I've been struggling to play on the desired level. Every now and then, I have couple good tournaments, but mostly it's really a challenge."
Novak Djokovic was beaten by Dutch qualifier Botic van de Zandschulp
Reuters
This candid assessment highlights Djokovic's ongoing performance concerns.
Djokovic's uncertain coaching future with Murray comes at a critical juncture in his career.
The Serb's admission about struggling to maintain his desired level in recent years suggests deeper issues beyond court conditions.
Murray's transition from rival to coach remains a work in progress, with Djokovic previously noting they were "getting to know each other on the court in a different way".
Whether this partnership continues through the clay court season and beyond now appears to be an open question.
