Anna 
Former world No.1 Daniil Medvedev has confirmed that he and his assistant coach Gilles Simon have mutually agreed to end their partnership after a year of working together. The decision comes as Medvedev arrives at the Rotterdam Open with a revamped coaching team.
The Russian tennis star broke the news in a statement, expressing his gratitude for Simon’s contributions. “Hey guys, Gilles Simon and I mutually decided to stop working together,” Medvedev said. “I am really thankful for everything that he brought to the team. We will absolutely stay friends and wish him nothing but the best.”
Despite Simon’s departure, Medvedev maintained that the year spent together was a positive experience, though the results did not meet expectations. The 2021 US Open champion and his coaching staff, which includes head coach Gilles Cervara, failed to secure a title during their time together, a notable gap considering Medvedev’s high status in the sport. However, the Russian downplayed the lack of titles, highlighting the valuable lessons learned.
“There were a lot of good things me and Gilles Cervara can take going forward. It just didn’t work out exactly the way we wanted in terms of results,” Medvedev explained at a press conference in Rotterdam. “We didn’t win a title or a Grand Slam, but I learned a lot of new things about tennis, and it gave me a new perspective on the game. I’m sure it’s going to help me in the future.”
Currently ranked No. 7 in the ATP standings, Medvedev is aiming to continue his climb up the rankings with Cervara still leading his team. The Russian player is focused on improving his game as the season progresses.
Meanwhile, Australian tennis star Alex de Minaur, ranked just 45 points behind Medvedev, is setting his sights on climbing higher in the rankings after a strong 2024 season. De Minaur, who reached the top 10 and consistently made the quarter-finals in all four Grand Slams, demonstrated his readiness for more success by defeating Belgium’s David Goffin 6-2, 6-4 in the Rotterdam Open.
Reflecting on his progress, de Minaur expressed his commitment to building on his foundation: “I feel I have taken many steps in the right direction during this past year. I am a better tennis player, having shown the necessary consistency to reach the quarter-finals in all four Grand Slams. My main goal this season is to avoid injuries and keep progressing. I don’t think I have reached my limit yet. I want more.”
De Minaur’s 2024 campaign was hindered by a hip injury that sidelined him for part of the year, but he remains determined to stay healthy and continue his upward trajectory in 2025.
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