October 14, 2013 | By Long Island Tennis Magazine Staff
Photo credit: Kenneth B. Goldberg
Roger Federer has ended his partnership with his coach of three-plus years, Paul Annacone, and has named Severin Luthi his new coach. Luthi was a co-coach of Federer with Annacone. Federer is currently in eighth position in the Emirates ATP Race To London with four spots remaining at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals. Federer has failed to reach a Grand Slam final this year for the first time since 2002, and has won only one title, this year’s grass-court tournament in Halle, in the last 14 months.
"After a terrific three-and-a-half-years working together, Paul and I have decided to move on to the next chapter in our professional lives," said Federer in a statement on his Web site. "When we started together we had a vision of a three-year plan to win another Grand Slam title and get back to the number one ranking. Along with many other goals and great memories, these two main goals were achieved. After numerous conversations culminating at the end of our most recent training block, we felt like this was the best time and path for both of us. Paul remains a dear friend, and we both look forward to continuing our friendship. I want to thank Paul for his help and the value he has added to me and my team."
Late last week, Federer was beaten 6-4, 6-7(5), 6-3 in the third round of the Shanghai Masters by Gael Monfils, currently ranked 42nd in the world.
