Former world number one Angelique Kerber has hired Johanna Konta’s ex-coach Wim Fissette in a bid to arrest her alarming slump.
The German slipped from top of the WTA ranking at the start of 2017 to end it in 21st position, winning just 29 or 53 matches and failing to secure a title.
She has now parted ways with long-term coach Torben Beltz, the man who helped guide her to two Grand Slam titles in 2016 and the top spot.
Fisette has now been hired. He recently split from British number one Konta, who herself enduring a miserable post-Wimbledon season.
Kerber said in a statement: “It's been tough but I'm about to start a new chapter in my career, with a new coach.
“Thank you Torben Beltz for everything that you’ve done for me. We share the best memories of my career so far and you’ve not just been a coach, but also a true friend and that won’t change.
“The next season is coming soon and I’m very excited to start working with Wim Fissette as my new coach. It’s a new chance and I’m curious to find out what we can achieve together.”
Fisette, who has also worked with the likes of current number one Simona Halep and four-time Grand Slam champion Kim Clijsters, added he was “very happy to start this adventure” with Kerber.
Beltz added: "Thanks for the adventures over the last three years. 2016 will be unforgotten, time to move on. Wish you all the best for 2018."
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