October 28, 2024

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Wawrinka and Norman end partnership

Wawrinka

It’s that time of the year, when coaching relationships end and the game of coaching musical chairs begins.

On Wednesday, Stan Wawrinka announced the end of his fruitful four-year collaboration with Magnus Norman.

They made a very effective team.

Wawrinka’s best career results – and they’ve come relatively late in his career – have been with Norman by his side.

Wawrinka won three Grand Slams: the 2014 Australian Open, the 2015 French Open and the 2016 US Open.

Norman was named ATP Coach of the Year in 2016.

Unfortunately, the Swiss star has been sidelined since Wimbledon this year, and called it a season in early August before undergoing knee surgery.

Typically, the player will initiate these things. But in this particular case, it appears to be Norman who is taking his leave, for family reasons.

Wawrinka

Mutual decision? Maybe not

The Swede, still just 41, coached Thomas Johansson and Robin Soderling before joining Team Wawrinka.

“After much thought I have decided to dedicate my future to my family. With two young kids at home, now is the right time for me to be with them. I could not have had a better player to work with and this has been one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make”, Norman said in a statement.

“I’m really honoured to have worked with Stan who is a great tennis player, but more importantly a fantastic person. I want to thank the whole team behind Stan for all the work over the last four years. It’s been a teamwork and a privilege from the first day.”

Wawrinka

Here’s the statement from Wawrinka, per his management.

“I would like to thank Magnus for the amazing four years we had together. I will always be grateful for the work and the time he spent on me to make me improve and become a three-time Grand Slam Champion. He was not only part of my team but also part of the family. For now I’m focusing on my rehabilitation and I will take time to decide with my team the necessary next steps,” Wawrinka said.

Wawrinka

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