The brief partnership between tennis legends Jimmy Connors and Maria Sharapova came to an abrupt end during the Cincinnati Open in 2013, lasting just 34 days. Connors, an eight-time Grand Slam champion, was brought in as Sharapova’s coach to help her regain her competitive edge. However, the collaboration quickly unraveled after Sharapova suffered a surprising early loss to Sloane Stephens in the second round of the tournament.
Following the match, Connors was informed that his coaching services were no longer required. He later reflected on the split, saying, “I was just told my services were no longer needed,” highlighting the sudden and unceremonious end to their partnership. The break-up came as a surprise to many, considering Connors’ reputation and Sharapova’s status as a top player at the time.
The decision to part ways was reportedly influenced by the differences in their approaches. Connors, known for his intense and fiery demeanor on the court, may have clashed with Sharapova’s more methodical and disciplined style. Additionally, Sharapova was recovering from a hip injury, which might have contributed to her inconsistent performance and the frustration on both sides.
Despite the short-lived collaboration, Connors maintained a positive outlook, expressing no hard feelings toward Sharapova. He acknowledged the challenges of working with an elite athlete and understood the pressure she was under to perform at the highest level.
For Sharapova, the split marked another chapter in her search for the right coaching fit. She continued to seek guidance that would complement her game and help her achieve further success. The episode remains a memorable moment in tennis history, underscoring the unpredictable nature of coaching relationships in the sport.