American Sloane Stephens has reportedly ended an eight-month coaching partnership with Paul Annacone and is now working with Thomas Hogstedt, who used to work with top tennis stars such as Maria Sharapova (for 3 years) and recently with Caroline Wozniacki (partnership lasted 3 months).
Statements from both Stephens’ and Annacone’s camps reveal that the split was mutual with the former stating that this will give her an opportunity for a “fresh start.”
Stephens achieved a career-high ranking of number 11 a year ago but less than stellar results so far this season saw her ranking drop to number 22. She has yet to get past a quartefinal this season. She lost in the opening round of Wimbledon last month.
“Based on the conversations Paul and I had after Wimbledon, we both feel like it would be a good idea for me to have a fresh start leading into the summer hard-court swing,” Stephens said. “I’ve learned a lot over our past eight months together and now just need to meld them into my long-term plan. Paul is one of the top coaches in the world and will remain a close friend and confidant. I can’t thank him enough for his time and continued support.”
Annacone has worked with top players as well, including Roger Federer.
“Sloane and I had a lot of good things happen but just couldn’t get the desired consistency. And since we agreed that our situation was causing doubt and confusion in Sloane’s mind, I really wanted her to find clarity leading into the U.S. Open. This is why a change [now],” he said.
“There is absolutely no doubt Sloane is one of the more talented players on the tour and I look forward to watching her have a great deal of success.”
Stephens will begin her North American hardcourt campaign at the Citi Open in Washington next week.
