Roger Federer announced a trial period with the man who guided Pete Sampras to greatness, as he begins work with Paul Annacone.
The American coach, 47, who recently quit a lucrative post at Britain’s federation, was in charge when Sampras won nine of his 14 Grand Slam titles. Federer, who has not had a hands-on, full-time coach since splitting with Peter Lundgren in late 2003, has stalled at 16 majors.
His 2010 season has cooled after beating Andy Murray for the Australian Open crown, and losing in the quarterfinals at both Roland Garros and Wimbledon after winning the pair of events a year ago.
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“I’ve been looking to add someone to my team and I’ve decided to spend some days with Paul Annacone,” Federer said on his website.
“As Paul winds down his responsibilities working for the Lawn Tennis Association, we will explore our relationship through this test period. Paul will work alongside my existing team and I am excited to learn from his experiences.”
Federer has worked on a casual basis with a line-up of top coaches including Australian Darren Cahill, Spaniard Jose Higueras and Aussie Tony Roche.
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He has insisted over the last several years that good friend and Swiss Davis Cup coach Severin Luthi, who travels to most events with Team Federer, plays the role of coach and sounding board.
Federer, holder of six Wimbledon titles, five at the US Open, four at the Australian Open and 2009 Roland Garros, is due to return to tennis in a fortnight at the Masters 1000 in Toronto.
In addition to Sampras, California-based Annacone also coached Tim Henman, a close friend of Federer when the four-time Wimbledon semifinalist Briton was still playing.