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Ivanovic names Nigel Sears as new coach


 

Originally published on: 30/06/11 09:57

Ana Ivanovic has named Nigel Sears – Fed Cup captain and Head of Women’s Tennis at the Lawn Tennis Association – as her new full-time coach.

The Serb, who fell in the third round at this year’s Wimbledon, was delighted at the appointment.

“I couldn’t be happier. I’ve admired Nigel for some time now, and I can’t wait to start working with him on court,“ said the world No.18, who parted ways with Steffi Graf’s former coach Heinz Gunthardt last November. “It was important that I waited for the right coach, and we are both excited about the challenges ahead.”

Sears has headed up women’s tennis at the LTA for the past four and a half years but resigned in order to coach the former world No.1.

“It’s been a privilege to be in charge of women’s tennis at the LTA and an honour to captain Great Britain’s Fed Cup team,” Sears said. “I feel we’ve made considerable progress in the women’s game over this period.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with some great coaches, trainers and physios and I look forward to following the progress of our players over the next few years.”

British No.3 Anne Keothavong led the tributes to the outgoing British coach on twitter.

“Really sad Nigel Sears has decided to resign from his position as Head Coach of Women’s Tennis,” she said. “He’s been one of the most influential people in my career and it’s been a privilege to work with him. It’s a loss for British Tennis and I wish him all the best working with Ana.”

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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.