Maria Sakkari is gearing up for the Indian Wells tournament and will be introducing her new coach, David Witt. According to Gazzetta, Jessica Pegula's former coach will be the one tasked with helping Sakkari return to her winning ways.
Reasons Behind Sakkari's Choice
Sakkari's recent string of four losses in five matches ultimately led to the termination of her six-year collaboration with Tom Hill. David Witt will be in Sakkari's box starting at Indian Wells, marking the official beginning of their partnership.
Stability and Past Success
The 51-year-old American coach's collaboration with Pegula ended on February 6th, after the Australian Open. Their partnership spanned five years, following Witt's previous experience with Venus Williams' team for eleven years, initially as a hitting partner and then as a coach.
This history of stable coaching relationships with tennis players played a significant role in Sakkari's decision. The Greek player is known for not making frequent changes to her team, as demonstrated by her long-standing collaboration with Tom Hill.
Furthermore, Witt played a crucial role in Pegula's ascent from No. 80 in the world rankings in the summer of 2020 to No. 5. Sakkari seeks a fresh start and a different approach compared to Tom Hill's guidance, under whom she reached No. 3 in the world rankings, captured two titles, and reached two Grand Slam semifinals. With Witt, she aims to leave behind her recent slump and solidify her position within the Top 10, currently sitting at No. 9.
The remaining question is who will Tom Hill coach next? Prior to Hill coaching Sakkari, he coached Danielle Collins. At 29 years old, he is one of the youngest coaches on the WTA or ATP Tour. He has plenty of years ahead of him to coach players so it is a matter of when not if we hear whose team he will join next.
The rest of the Team Remains Unchanged
This coaching change for Maria Sakkari does not involve any alterations to the rest of her team. Julien Coustan, who stayed with her in Dubai, will continue to be her hitting partner. Marc Boada remains her physiotherapist, and Giorgos Panagopoulos stays on as her fitness coach.
