Two Wimbledon stars have confirmed the end of long-standing coaching partnerships just days after their tournament exits. Felix Auger-Aliassime parted ways with Frederic Fontang after a decade-long collaboration, while Jiri Lehecka split from Michal Navratil after eight years together.
Auger-Aliassime and Fontang: A Decade of Growth
Under Fontang's guidance, the Canadian won multiple ATP titles and reached the 2021 US Open semi-finals. This year, his Wimbledon campaign ended in the quarter-finals with a defeat to Novak Djokovic. Announcing the decision on Instagram, Auger-Aliassime wrote: "After nearly 10 years of working together, it has recently been decided that Wimbledon would be my last tournament with Frederic by my side as my coach. Today, I want to express my deepest respect, gratitude, and admiration for his dedication."
He added: "Since I was 16 years old, he has guided my development and helped me experience incredible moments through this sport. He has also been by my side during the toughest moments of my career. In those difficult times, I always found in him the calm, composure, and wisdom I needed."
Lehecka and Navratil: Eight Years of Sacrifice
Lehecka, whose Wimbledon run ended in the fourth round, paid tribute to Navratil in a statement: "When I look back, I see eight years filled with hard work, sacrifices, victories, and defeats. Every single one of them had its purpose. Thank you, Michal, for being such an important part of this journey. For your support, honesty, toughness, and for believing in me."
The Czech star expressed optimism for the future: "I'm truly grateful for everything we've built together. At the same time, I know that the past is only the foundation for what's still to come. With humility, great motivation, and unwavering determination, I'm looking forward to the next chapter."
Reflections and Next Steps
Earlier in the week, Auger-Aliassime reflected on his quarter-final loss, stating: "In the process of trying to digest this loss, I find myself using it as fuel to bring myself back to moments like this again. The greatest improvements I can make will come from competing in matches like this."
The Wimbledon final is scheduled for Sunday, 12 July, with Jannik Sinner set to face Alexander Zverev. Coverage is broadcast on BBC One and BBC Two, and available via BBC iPlayer.
