Mauresmo splits from coach

Frenchwoman acts after dismal season

Last updated: 29th September 2008

Amelie Mauresmo China Open rd1 Oct 08

Mauresmo: difficult decision

Amelie Mauresmo has split from long-time coach Loic Courteau following a dramatic loss of form.

Courteau guided Mauresmo to the Australian Open and Wimbledon titles in 2006, as well as top spot in the world rankings.

But the Frenchwoman has since dropped down the rankings to number 25, prompting her decision to part company with Courteau.

"I probably need a little new motivation, a revival, a new dynamic in training, preparation and also in daily life," Mauresmo said on her official website.

"We spoke freely and honestly about one another. We talked about it for several months. We wondered if there were still things we could do.

"We came to this conclusion at the end of one year, one year and a half, and it was difficult for the two parties."

Mauresmo will not be rushed into appointing a new coach, adding: "I need to take the time to reflect...to know what I want exactly."

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