Italian No.1 Fabio Fognini will head into the 2020 season with a revamped team after confirmation that his current coach will leave his position later this year.
Franco Davin has held the position of Fognini’s chief mentor since 2016. A former coach of Juan Martin del Potro and captain of the Argentinian Davis Cup team, he has overseen a series of milestones in the career of the 32-year-old. During their time together, Fognini has won five ATP titles. The most significant of which occurred in April when he triumphed at the Monte Carlo Masters. Becoming the first player from his country to win the title in 51 years. This season Fognini also became the oldest player to ever make their debut in the world’s top 10.
“After hard work over 3 years, we reached our target, with dedication, effort but mostly affection.” Davin wrote in an Instagram post.
“Reaching such a big objective provokes both a huge satisfaction and the challenge to establish new goals.’
“After many conversations, we’ve decided to finish our professional relations at the end of 2019.
We’ve arrived to our destination and we’ll follow new routes. We’ll keep a great friendship and family’s relationship.”
The announcement follows weeks of speculation that the two will be going their separate ways. La Nacion journalist Sebastián Torok reported on the upcoming split more than two months ago. Although there was no official confirmation at the time.
“Everybody knows what Fabio is able to do in the court with his charisma, his unmatchable talent and his well known “character.” But let me remind you, the best thing about Fabio is seen outside the court, he’s an amazing person.” Davin said in tribute to Fognini.
Fognini heads into the Asian swing with a win-loss record of 23-18. However, only seven of those victories have occurred following the conclusion of the French Open. At the US Open he crashed out in the first round. Making it his worst grand slam performance for two years. He will be hoping to get back on track next week when he returns to action at the China Open in Beijing.
There has been no details released about who could replace Davin in the future. Fognini is currently ranked 11th in the world.
