Ivanovic teams up with Graf coach Heinz Gunthardt

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 11:55

Former world No.1 Ana Ivanovic announced on Monday that she is now working with Heinz Gunthardt, former coach to German legend Steffi Graf.

The 2008 Roland Garros champion said on her website BNP Paribas Showdown at New York’s Madison Square Garden next week.

According to the website, Gunthardt’s appointment “ends, or at least suspends” the 22-year-old’s involvement in the adidas Player Development Programme, where she worked with Sven Groeneveld on a part-time basis.

SInce winning her only Grand Slam title in Paris, a litany of injures and poor form have seen Ivanovic fall from No.1 in the world rankings in May 2008 to No.23 after being knocked out in the second round of the Australian Open last month.

The Serbian replaces the injured American Serena Williams in the innovative Billie Jean King Cup exhibition event, where she will take on Kim Clijsters, with Venus Williams facing 2009 French Open champ Svetlana Kuznetsova in the other semi-final.

“First of all I would like to wish Serena a speedy recovery. I’ve had my fair share of injuries lately and it for sure must be a very frustrating time for her,” said Ivanovic.

“I am very happy and flattered to be invited to take part in this event once again. I had a great time last year, both on and off the court.

“No-ad scoring is such an exciting concept, for both spectators and players. Last year I had a very intense match against Serena; the atmosphere was amazing. I expect a very tough and exciting contest with Kim in just over a week’s time.”

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