World No.24 Anett Kontaveit has appointed Nigel Sears as her new coach heading into the grass season as she aims to build on her recent momentum.
The announcement was made following Kontaveit’s run at the French Open. The 22-year-old, who was seeded 25th in the draw, defeated Petra Kvitova on route to the fourth round. Making it her most successful appearance at Roland Garros yet. Her run was ended by US Open champion Sloane Stephens, who thrashed Kontaveit 6-2, 6-0, on Sunday.
A day after her heavy loss it was confirmed that Sears has been nominated to replace Glenn Schaap. Schaap coached Kontaveit for two years and guided her into the world’s top 100. According to a statement, it was the Estonian who decided to end the collaboration. Opting to sign a three-month trial period with the experienced British coach. The 61-year-old has previously been a mentor for players such as Ana Ivanovic, Daniela Hantuchova and Ekaterina Makarova.
“Working with Glenn certainly helped me achieve a much better physical form. He taught me to use my serve arsenal better. While working with him I learned to know and trust my own game and techniques,“ Said Kontaveit. “However, fresh ideas and new experiences are necessary to keep moving forward, which is the reason for ending the working contract with Schaap.”
During the clay swing of the tour, the former junior world No.4 achieved a series of high-profile wins. Reaching the semifinals of tournaments in Stuttgart and Rome. Since April she has defeated Venus Williams (twice), Caroline Wozniacki, Svetlana Kuznetsova and Kvitova.
The collaboration between Kontaveit and Sears will get underway this week in Holland. Where Kontaveit will aim to defend her title at the Rosmalen Open, which will start on Monday.
So far this season, Kontaveit has won 25 out of 36 matches played on the tour.
Kontaveit’s season so far
Brisbane – R2
Sydney – QR1 (retired)
Australian Open – R4
Qatar – R1
Dubai – R2
Indian Wells – R2
Miami – R2
Lugano – R1
Stuttgart – SF
Madrid – R3
Rome – SF
French Open – R4
