Wawrinka adds Annacone to coaching team

Originally published on 13/06/17 00:00

The Swiss, who was defeated by Rafael Nadal in the French Open final on Sunday, is bidding to win Wimbledon this summer and become just the sixth male in the Open era to complete a Career Grand Slam.

Annacone’s coaching credentials are exceptional and he has worked with Pete Sampras, Tim Henman, Roger Federer and Sloane Stephens throughout his distinguished career.

"I would like to announce that I have added Paul Annacone to our existing coaching staff to help during the grass-court season over the next four weeks," revealed the Swiss.

"Paul's experience speaks for itself having worked with some of the greatest players of all time. His knowledge can only better our understanding of the grass and it's a real privilege and honour to add such a coach to our corner."

This is not the first time Wawrinka has employed a new coach for the grass-court season. Last year, he teamed up with the 1996 Wimbledon champion, Richard Krajicek, in an effort to further his "knowledge and understanding of the grass,” but the results were disappointing.

He suffered an opening round defeat to Fernando Verdasco at the Aegon Championships which was followed by a second round loss to Juan Martin Del Potro at Wimbledon.

Grass remains Wawrinka’s weakest surface, however he has reached the quarter-finals at the All England Club on two previous occasions. The 32-year-old will hope that Annacone, who will work alongside Magnus Norman, can help take him into the latter stages once again.

The Swiss, who has never won a grass-court title, will begin his Wimbledon preparations at Queen’s Club next week.

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