Denis Shapovalov is looking for himself on the field, but also outside the field. Moreover, he is trying to add an experienced coach to his team to guide him for the rest of his career.
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This is what he mentioned during his press briefing organized by the ATP on Sunday. Over the past few years, Shapovalov has been coached by several different coaches. He wouldn’t be an easy customer, according to our information.
Photo QMI Agency, Joêl Lemay
Denis Shapovalov took on Australian Alex de Minaur under the encouragement of his coach and friend Peter Polansky on Monday in Montreal.
It was managed by Martin Laurendeau in his professional debut. His mother, Tessa,— attended his games on a regular basis.
Youzhny and Delgado
Then, before the pandemic, Shapovalov hired ex-player Mikhail Youzhny.
However, this association ended after last 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 current campaign. This business relationship lasted only a few months.
A friend to the rescue
In May 2022, it became known that Peter Polansky was now the left-handed head coach. His mother would always be part of his team.
A funny decision. The 34-year-old Polansky is still an active player in the ATP despite having 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. 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 now points to 22e rank. He started the 2022 season in 14th place.
Open to a “legend”
In addition to a change of instructor, Shapovalov changed the agency for the management of his career. He is now with StarWing Sports, which enlisted Italian Jannik Sinner last year.
His new agents would like the 23-year-old to add an experienced coach to his clan.
“I’m looking for some kind of mentor,” Shapovalov said. A kind of legend. A person who would support the team and who would give his opinion.
“It’s nice to be able to talk to a legend and get his opinion on different situations. It would be a great addition for the team. »
He did not set a precise timetable 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. »