Federer to link up with Annacone

 

Originally published on: 27/07/10 10:27

With the US Open less than five weeks away, Roger Federer is to trial a partnership with Paul Annacone – former coach of Pete Sampras and Tim Henman – in an attempt to rediscover his Grand Slam form.

The 28-year-old Swiss told his personal website he will team up with the 47-year-old coach for a “test period”.

“I’ve been looking to add someone to my team and I’ve decided to spend some days with Paul Annacone,” Federer said.

“As Paul winds down his responsibilities working for the Lawn Tennis Association, we will explore our relationship through this test period.

“Paul will work alongside my existing team and I am excited to learn from his experiences.”

Federer dropped to No.3 in the world after his quarter-final defeat to Tomas Berdych at Wimbledon – his lowest ranking for seven years.

The loss followed an early exit for the 2009 French Open champ in the last eight at Roland Garros, ending an incredible run of Grand Slam semi-final appearances that had stretched back to his 2004 third round French Open loss to Gustavo Kuerten.

But with a tilt at a sixth US Open title in mind, Federer hopes his latest association with a high-profile coach can help him re-affirm his dominance in New York.

Federer has utilised the input of Aussie coaches Tony Roche and Darren Cahill in recent years, while Spanish coach Jose Higueras oversaw his last triumph in New York – against Britain’s Andy Murray in 2008.

And after five successive victories at Flushing Meadows between 2004-2008, Federer will hope Annacone can assist him in re-capturing the US Open after losing his title to Juan Martin del Potro last year.

Federer will return to action for the first time since Wimbledon on August 9 at the Rogers Cup, where he has twice claimed the title – in 2004 and 2006.

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