Sofia Kenin fires dad as coach weeks before Roland Garros

With just a few weeks left until the commencement of Roland Garros, World No.4 Sofia Kenin announced that she has parted ways with her father as coach and is putting together a new technical team.

The American has been coached by her dad, Alex, for the majority of her career and he has been a significant presence in her box on the WTA circuit. However, he has also been a controversial figure as he has been warned numerous times by chair umpires for coaching during matches, which isn't allowed during Grand Slams.

The 2020 Australian Open champion made the announcement on her Instagram account, including a picture of herself and her dad posing with her maiden Grand Slam trophy in Melbourne last year.

"I wanted to let everyone know that after many years together I have decided to part ways with my father as my coach. This was not an easy decision for me as we shared many great moments together and had a lot of success," Kenin said. "I will be forever grateful for my dad's sacrifice and contributions towards getting me to where I am today."

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"I am excited for what the future holds and look forward to putting together a new technical team in the coming weeks ahead. I can't wait to get back on the court next week in Rome."

Despite falling in last year's Roland Garros final to Iga Swiatek, Kenin has had a slower start to 2021 as she has compiled a 7-7 record. The 22-year old has lost five of her last six matches, and will look to right the ship at the Italian Open in Rome next week. The French Open begins on May 30.

Sofia Kenin on Instagram: “Hi everyone, I wanted to let everyone know that after many years together I have decided to part ways with my father as my coach. This was…”