Share

New coach to join Sharapova ahead of US Open

Cape Town - Maria Sharapova will continue to work with former Novak Djokovic coach Riccardo Piatti at the US Open as she tries to recover some of her former glory.

The former world No 1 has five Grand Slam titles to her name, but has struggled in recent times since her suspension for taking a banned substance.

She sought out Piatti this summer and although she remains unsure about her long-term coaching set-up, she has confirmed her plans for Flushing Meadows.

"I'm not sure. It's still a work in progress. But Riccardo will be with me in New York," Sharapova said.

"I just crashed his summer camp in Elba. I didn't know Elba existed until I knew he was there.

"I still have to continue to look to play a few more practice matches. I feel there is a lot of things I want to improve. Yeah, it's endless.

"I came off of Wimbledon just wanting to simplify things, and I think that's what I really liked and the approach that Riccardo had, as well, in the couple of weeks I spent with him.

"Just wasn't anything like I have never heard before or something completely new," Sharapova said about her time with Piatti.

"I think all of us who have played tennis for many years, and as a coach you have seen a lot of things, maybe someone can tell you the same thing, but in the way they say it maybe with their knowledge and how wise they are and through their experience just gets to you a little bit differently."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE