Daniil Medvedev splits with coach after public defeat in the United States

NEW YORK – Daniil Medvedev broke up with longtime coach Gilles Cervara in a disappointing year in the Grand Slam, ending with his collapse in his first-round defeat at the U.S. Open.

Medvedev is the 2021 U.S. Open champion, and Cervara both posted messages on Instagram on Sunday, thanking each other for their successful partnership, including Russia’s No. 1 in the ATP rankings.

“I thank you for your guidance over the years for my life,” Medvedev wrote.

Medvedev won 20 titles but fell to No. 13 in the first round of the final three majors, including two to Benjamin Bonzi.

It was after he lost to Bonzi last week that he allowed Bonzi to serve again after playing during the game, and was eventually fined $42,500 for the U.S. Open, thus earning Unsportsmanlike behavior and racket abuse.

Cervara wrote that he loves coaching and supporting Medvedev “(even if it’s difficult) and helps with you and the team to help your performance.”

“I will remember your unconventional magic as a player, it’s your power,” he added. “I’m sure it will return.”