Andy Murray Moves On From Coach Amidst Slump

Tennis Now

After losing in his first round two weeks in a row to players that are not even in the top 100, Andy Murray took it upon himself to part ways with his coach Alex Corretja in a mutual agreement. There are rumors of Ivan Lendl stepping up to take his place.

Murray publicly gave Corretja thanks on his website saying, “I've had a really good relationship with Alex over the past three years. I have learned so much from being around him and I want to thank for his hard work, enthusiasm, dedication, and support. He has been a great friend as well as a mentor to me and we've shared lots of success and good times both on and off the court."

Murray has worked with Corretja part-time since 2008. In that span, he has traded places back and forth with Robin Soderling for the World No. 4 and 5, placed as a finalist at slams three times, and won six Masters Series events. Certainly a more than capable resume under Corretja. However, that Grand Slam title and Murray's confidence has put a lot of pressure on the Scot.

"I mean, I played poorly last two weeks. You know, I was happier with the way that I competed this week than last. But, yeah, I mean, confidence could have something to do with that. You know, the same thing happened around, you know, the same time last year. You know, I have been practicing well, training well, and then the matches can't get anything going." After losing to Bogomolov Jr., Murray said of his coaching situation, "It's not anyone's fault for giving me wrong tactics or practicing the wrong way. That wasn't -- that's not the reason why I played like I did. So, you know, I'll have a think about it and see what I want to do. If I make a change, it won't be because of how I've played, you know, the last two matches."

The former World No. 2, Alex Corretja said, "Helping Andy has been a great experience for me, he's got great talent and can be one of the best on any surface. I am very thankful to him for his confidence and trust during this time and also to his family, and the rest of Andy's team. I wish Andy, his family and all his team all the best both personally and professionally."

With the love on display from both parties, it's a wonder these two are breaking up in the first place.

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