Ivan responded to Tsitsipas, saying that now nothing can be said, and Roddick stands up for Venus getting a wildcard.

Today, tennis coach Ivanisevic addressed Tsitsipas's previous comments and discussed other details regarding the end of their collaboration. Additionally, in light of the recent controversy surrounding American star Venus Williams receiving a wildcard, Roddick spoke out in support of her.

“It seems like nowadays people can't say anything,” Ivanisevic revealed his undeniable frustration and confusion while facing reporters. When the "dictator" label was placed on him by Tsitsipas, this Croatian coach had to defend himself during the interview, stating, “Everything has been exaggerated; I did not insult him. I have said these things to his face; I am not talking behind his back.”

He candidly pointed out that Tsitsipas was “not mentally prepared at all” before Wimbledon, considering it a well-known fact. “The truths I speak are meant to have some impact. Unfortunately, this is the reality, and it is widely recognized. He knows it himself. He was not mentally prepared to face Wimbledon. I hope he can find his way. We have all witnessed his glorious achievements; he has never forgotten how to play tennis.”

Regarding the specifics of their collaboration ending, Ivanisevic admitted that they communicated the conclusion over the phone, and the process was pleasant, with no hard feelings between them, and they even expressed gratitude to each other.

On Tsitsipas's decision to bring his father back into the team, Ivanisevic expressed support, stating, “He plays at his best when collaborating with his father; his father knows him best. This is their family plan. It is the wisest decision, and I sincerely wish him well. With his talent, he should not be ranked where he is now. I told him yesterday that if he can't clarify some matters, the current situation won't change.”

“Ivan just spoke the obvious truth that everyone knows,” wrote a seasoned fan on the forum. “Top athletes need to have the nerve to handle such honest feedback.” Others held a more reserved stance on the coach's public comments: “The coach's role is internal development, not public commentary, especially when the collaboration has ended.”

Looking back on their collaboration, it was quite challenging for both sides. Tsitsipas previously believed that the intense schedule caused him to lose joy in tennis, while Ivanisevic insisted it was an attitude problem, stating that without hard training, it’s tough to achieve results. For Tsitsipas, returning to a more patient and understanding father might be the best choice, while for Ivanisevic, as a coach, venting frustrations can be understood, and ending the collaboration may not be a bad thing for him.

Switching to another piece of tennis news, 45-year-old Venus Williams recently received a wildcard for the Washington tournament and has now also obtained a wildcard for the Cincinnati event, sparking significant discussion online. The core of the controversy points to fairness—when a legendary player whose ranking has fallen outside the top thousand still holds a wildcard, does this inadvertently squeeze the rising opportunities for younger players?

In response, Roddick stepped up on his podcast to defend Venus Williams: “I often say that if you are the event organizer, any well-known player can essentially get a wildcard anytime, anywhere. If Federer wants to compete next week, as the event director, you would definitely give him a wildcard.”

Roddick emphasized that Venus, as a seven-time Grand Slam champion, a tennis icon, and a member of the Williams family, holds tremendous value, stating, “Her presence is a boon for both the city of Washington and the entire event.” The Cincinnati tournament followed suit by also granting a wildcard to Venus, confirming Roddick's logic.

However, not all voices support Venus. Fans' opinions online are polarized. Supporters argue, “She is Venus Williams! Seven Grand Slams! Five Wimbledon titles! She absolutely deserves any wildcard!” In contrast, opponents focus more on rules and opportunities: “Is it fair for a player who is almost unranked to receive so many wildcards? What about those who compete year-round, struggling to improve their rankings?” Some netizens state, “This is purely for commercial reasons, driven by capital rather than sportsmanship.”

Lisa Fernandes, editor-in-chief of Tennis World magazine, commented: “The fairness of competitive sports versus commercial realities, honest communication versus professional boundaries, tribute to legends versus opportunities for newcomers—these contradictions will never disappear; they will continue to shape the future of this sport.”

“Between competitive fairness and commercial allure, the name of a legend itself has become a passport that transcends rankings.” Events need traffic and attention, and competition also relies on capital support and commercial operations. Just like Roddick's assertion that “Federer could get a wildcard anytime if he returned,” there is no such thing as “absolute fairness” in this world.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)