Denis Shapovalov is looking for an experienced coach

UPDATE DAY

Denis Shapovalov seeks himself on the pitch, but also off the pitch. Moreover, he is trying to add an experienced coach to his team to guide him for the rest of his career.

This is what he mentioned during his press briefing organized by the ATP. Over the past few years, Shapovalov has been coached by several different coaches. He would not be an easy customer according to our information.

It was managed by Martin Laurendeau in his professional debut. His mother Tessa attended his games on a regular basis. Then, before the pandemic, Shapovalov hired Mikhail Youzhny.

However, this association ended after the 2021 season by mutual agreement. The athlete was not satisfied with the direction of his career. 

Then the Canadian decided to try his luck with Jamie Delgado, the former coach of Andy Murray, to start the this campaign. This business relationship lasted only a few months.

Polansky to the rescue

In May 2022, it became known that Peter Polansky was now the southpaw's head coach. His mother Tessa would always be part of his team.

A funny decision. The 33-year-old Polansky is still an active player in the ATP even though he has suffered several injuries over the past few years. The two players are good friends off the pitch.

“Peter was a very smart player when he was playing,” Shapovalov said of Polansky. I've had a lot of difficulties with him since we started working together, but we continue to work hard.

“We know each other very well. We've been on the same Davis Cup team a few times. He has a good view of my game.

“He communicates very well with me and the rest of my team. He is professional and very well organized. It's going well so far. We have a good vision for the future.”

In the ATP rankings, Shapovalov is now ranked 22nd. He started the 2022 season in 14th place.

Open to a “legend”

In addition to a coaching change, Shapovalov has changed career management agency. He is now with StarWing Sports who signed Italian Jannik Sinner last year.

His new agents would like the 23-year-old to add an experienced coach to his squad.

“I'm looking for some sort of mentor,” Shapovalov said. A kind of legend. A person who would support the team and give their opinion.

“It’s nice to be able to talk to a legend and get his opinion on different situations. He would be a great addition to the team.”

He hasn't set a specific timeline for his research.

“I have to look at my options and who is available. I don't know when it's going to happen, but it's in my plans.”