Grigor Dimitrov and Daniel Vallverdu end their partnership for the second time

By
Mark Hall
-
Grigor Dimitrov And Daniel Vallverdu End Their Partnership For The Second Time

The tennis off-season has once again brought significant shifts in coaching relationships. Players often use this period to reassess their teams ahead of the new year, and recent weeks have seen several notable changes.

Alcaraz and Ferrero part ways

The biggest announcement came on Wednesday when Carlos Alcaraz revealed that he and long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero had ended their collaboration. Ferrero, alongside Samuel Lopez, had guided Alcaraz to his second consecutive year-end No. 1 finish and six major titles by the age of 22. Their work was recognized when they shared the 2025 ATP Coach of the Year award.

Dimitrov and Vallverdu end partnership again

On Thursday, Grigor Dimitrov confirmed that he and Daniel Vallverdu had split for the second time. Updating fans on Instagram, Dimitrov wrote: “Thank you for believing in me and pushing me to be my best. You’ll always be a part of my story.” The two first worked together from July 2016 through May 2019, before reuniting at the end of 2022. Vallverdu also coached Stan Wawrinka during the period between his stints with Dimitrov. Under Vallverdu’s guidance, Dimitrov returned to the Top 10 in 2024, but his 2025 season was cut short by a shoulder injury sustained at Wimbledon. He made a brief comeback at the Rolex Paris Masters before deciding to end his campaign early.

Other moves on the coaching carousel

The changes have not been limited to Alcaraz and Dimitrov. Jasmine Paolini recently added doubles partner Sara Errani as an official member of her coaching team, strengthening her support system. Meanwhile, Gilles Cervara, who left Daniil Medvedev’s camp in August, has taken on a new role guiding American Nishesh Basavareddy, a former standout at Stanford University.

Looking ahead to the new season

These moves highlight the constant evolution of professional tennis, where coaching relationships can be as dynamic as the players themselves. With the 2026 season approaching, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these changes impact performances on the court.

Grigor Dimitrov in 2025

Grigor Dimitrov

22 - 11win/loss

Hard
11-6
I Hard
1-0
Clay
7-4
Grass
3-1
Rank
44
High
3
34 year old
WLWWWLLWLW
2025 Highlights
SF
BrisbaneMiami
QF
Monte-Carlo
4th
Indian WellsMadridWimbledon
SEE ALL

Now the world no.44, Grigor played his last match on the 27th of October when he beat world no.58 Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard 7-6(5) 6-1 in the 1st round in Paris (draw).

Until now, during this year Grigor owns an overall 18-11 record. Grigor Dimitrov’s best result of the current year was getting to the semifinal in Brisbane and Miami.

He is also scheduled to play in Brisbane (Brisbane International). The main draw will start on the 29th of December.

Dimitrov
Paris
Dimitrov's Record

Naomi Osaka leaves longtime agent Stuart Duguid and Evolve agency

By
John Ross
-
Naomi Osaka

Naomi Osaka, one of the most influential figures in tennis and sports business, is making a significant change. The four-time Grand Slam champion has decided to part ways with her longtime agent Stuart Duguid and the agency they cofounded in 2022, Evolve. The move marks the end of a partnership that shaped much of Osaka’s off-court success and brand development.

The rise of Evolve and Osaka’s influence

Evolve was created with the goal of redefining athlete representation, focusing on empowerment and broader opportunities beyond the court. Osaka’s involvement helped the agency gain immediate recognition, as she became not only a client but also a cofounder. Her presence brought credibility and visibility, aligning with her reputation as a trailblazer in sports and culture.

What comes next for Osaka

While details of her next steps have not yet been revealed, Osaka’s decision signals a new chapter in her business journey. Known for her ability to merge athletic excellence with global influence, she is expected to continue building ventures that reflect her values and vision. The move away from Evolve suggests she may be seeking fresh opportunities or new structures to support her career both on and off the court.

Impact on the tennis business landscape

Osaka’s departure from Evolve is not only personal but also significant for the broader tennis business world. Her choices often set trends and influence how athletes approach representation and brand building. The industry will be watching closely to see where she directs her energy next, and how this decision reshapes her role as both a player and entrepreneur.

Would you like me to also prepare a timeline of Osaka’s business ventures to show how this decision fits into her broader career?

Naomi Osaka in 2025

Naomi Osaka

36 - 15win/loss

Hard
25-9
Clay
8-3
Grass
3-3
Rank
16
High
1
28 year old
WWWWWWWLWL
2025 Highlights
W
Saint
F
AucklandMontreal
SF
U.S. Open
SEE ALL

Now the world no.16, Osaka played her last match on the 15th of October when she defeated world no.89 Suzan Lamens 7-6(6) 3-6 6-2 in the 2nd round in Osaka (draw).

At present, during this year Osaka has managed to achieve a 35-15 record. The Japanese clinched 1 title in the Malo. The Japanese was the runner-up in Auckland and Montreal.

Osaka
Osaka
Osaka's Record

Coco Gauff maintains top-earner status for third consecutive year

By
John Ross
-
Gauff

The financial landscape of women’s sports has undergone a dramatic shift, and for the third year in a row, American tennis sensation Coco Gauff remains its most lucrative figure. Following the release of the 2025 financial rankings, Gauff’s position at the summit of the world’s highest-paid female athletes has been reaffirmed. This sustained economic dominance was further highlighted this week by her appointment as a global ambassador for Mercedes-Benz, a deal that integrates her into a marketing strategy alongside legends such as Roger Federer.

A record-breaking three-year run at the top

Since first claiming the top spot in 2023, Gauff has consistently outperformed her peers in both tournament winnings and commercial partnerships. In 2025, her total annual income reached an estimated $33 million, narrowly edging out world number one Aryna Sabalenka and three-time Grand Slam champion Iga Świątek. This achievement marks the third consecutive year that Gauff has led the rankings, a feat that underscores her unique position as a generational talent whose marketability rivals the most established names in global sports.

“At 21, Coco Gauff continues to redefine what global sports dominance looks like. It is no longer enough to simply win championships; one must also win the financial race.” — Tamara Brown, Sports Reporter at BET.

The strategic shift to Coco Gauff Enterprises

A significant factor in Gauff’s third consecutive year as the top earner was her decision to take direct control of her commercial interests. Earlier in 2025, she departed from traditional agencies to launch Coco Gauff Enterprises. This move toward personal ownership has allowed her to curate a high-end endorsement portfolio that now includes Rolex, New Balance, Bose, and the newly announced Mercedes-Benz partnership. By focusing on long-term brand equity rather than short-term visibility, Gauff has successfully transitioned from a sponsored athlete to a business entrepreneur.

“As I’ve gotten older, I don’t want to just be a face of brands, but also be the brand.” — Coco Gauff, two-time Grand Slam champion.

Endorsements as the primary driver of wealth

The 2025 rankings reveal that the vast majority of Gauff’s income—approximately $25 million—was generated off the court. While her $8 million in prize money was significant, fueled by titles at Roland Garros and Wuhan, it is her appeal to luxury and tech brands that has solidified her financial lead. As women’s tennis continues to dominate the lists of highest-paid female athletes, Gauff’s ability to secure the highest off-court annual income of any woman in sports ensures that her financial legacy is as robust as her competitive one.

“Coco Gauff is an exceptional athletic talent—focused, resilient, and unafraid to lead. As Mercedes-Benz embarks on an exciting new chapter in tennis, her impact both on and off the court makes her an outstanding ambassador.” — Christina Schenck, Vice President of Digital

Cori Gauff in 2025

Cori Gauff

55 - 21win/loss

Hard
34-12
I Hard
1-2
Clay
20-4
Grass
0-3
Rank
3
High
2
21 year old
LWLWWWWWLL
2025 Highlights
W
AustraliaFrench OpenWuhan
F
MadridRome
SF
Beijing
SEE ALL

Currently ranked no.3, Coco played her last match on the 6th of November when she overcame world no.8 Jasmine Paolini 6-3 6-2 in the round robin in Riyadh (draw).

This season Coco has a compiled 48-16 win-loss record. The American clinched 3 titles in 2025 in Australia, French Open and Wuhan. Coco was the finalist in Madrid and Rome.

Gauff
Riyadh
Gauff's Record

A 48-hour deadline leads to the split between Alcaraz and Ferrero

By
John Ross
-
A 48 Hour Deadline Leads To The Split Between Alcaraz And Ferrero

Juan Carlos Ferrero received a new collaboration agreement on a Saturday morning, with the condition that he accept or reject it within 48 hours. The contract contained several clauses that Ferrero considered unacceptable. While the financial aspect—reportedly involving a salary reduction—was not the main issue, other non-tennis-related stipulations created tension. The deadline expired on Monday morning, and by Wednesday, the separation was officially announced.

A partnership that defined an era

Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero began working together in 2018, when Alcaraz was still a promising teenager. Under Ferrero’s guidance, Alcaraz transformed into one of the most dominant players on the ATP Tour. Their collaboration produced remarkable achievements, including six Grand Slam titles (US Open 2022 and 2025, Wimbledon 2023 and 2024, Roland Garros 2024 and 2025), multiple Masters 1000 victories, ATP 500 and ATP 250 trophies, and a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. In 2022, Alcaraz reached the world number one ranking, cementing his place among tennis’s elite.

The human side of the split

Ferrero was more than just a coach to Alcaraz. The Spanish player often described him as a mentor and father figure. “He is like my second father,” Alcaraz once said about Ferrero. Their relationship extended beyond the court, making the breakup particularly significant in emotional terms. Reports suggest that Ferrero’s reduced ability to travel in recent years contributed to the strain, with Samuel López stepping in to share coaching duties.

Looking ahead

The end of the Alcaraz-Ferrero partnership raises questions about the future direction of Alcaraz’s career. As he continues to dominate the sport, the choice of his next full-time coach will be crucial. For Ferrero, the decision to walk away reflects his unwillingness to compromise on principles beyond financial matters. Their split underscores the delicate balance between professional demands and personal values in elite sports.

Carlos Alcaraz in 2025

Carlos Alcaraz

72 - 13win/loss

Hard
28-7
I Hard
11-2
Clay
22-3
Grass
11-1
Rank
1
High
1
22 year old
LWWWWLWWWW
2025 Highlights
W
RotterdamMonte-CarloRomeFrench OpenLondonCincinnatiU.S. OpenTokyo
F
BarcelonaWimbledonNitto ATP Finals
SF
Indian Wells
SEE ALL

Currently the world no.1, Alcaraz played his last contest on the 16th of November when he surrendered to world no.2 Jannik Sinner 7-6(4) 7-5 in the final in the Nitto ATP Finals (draw).

Currently, during this season Carlos has achieved a compiled 71-9 match record. Carlos conquered 8 titles in 2025 in Rotterdam, Monte-Carlo, Rome, French Open, London, Cincinnati, U.S. Open and Tokyo. The Spaniard got to the final in Barcelona, Wimbledon and the Nitto ATP Finals.

Alcaraz
the Nitto ATP Finals
Alcaraz's Record

Filipina tennis star Alexandra Eala ends 2025 season with historic SEA Games triumph.

By
Mark Hall
-
Eala Gold Medal

Alexandra Eala closed her 2025 tennis season with a historic achievement, capturing her first Southeast Asian Games gold medal in Bangkok. The 20-year-old Filipina defeated Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew, ranked world No. 240, with a commanding 6-1, 6-2 victory in the women’s singles final on Thursday, 18 December.

Historic milestone

Eala’s triumph makes her the first Filipina singles player to win a SEA Games gold medal in 26 years, following Pia Tamayo in 1981 and Maricris Fernandez in 1999. This victory adds to her growing legacy as one of the Philippines’ brightest tennis stars.

Season highlights

Ranked world No. 53, Eala capped off a remarkable fortnight in Thailand. She began the Games as one of the Philippines’ co-flagbearers at the Opening Ceremony and went on to secure three medals in Bangkok:

  • 🥇 Gold in women’s singles

  • 🥉 Bronze in women’s team

  • 🥉 Bronze in mixed doubles

Career achievements

This latest success brings Eala’s SEA Games medal tally to six, underscoring her consistency and dominance in regional competition. Her breakthrough gold marks a defining moment in her career and signals her growing stature on the international tennis stage.

Alexandra Eala in 2025

Alexandra Eala

40 - 26win/loss

Hard
25-14
I Hard
3-3
Clay
2-4
Grass
10-5
Rank
53
High
50
20 year old
LWWLWWWWWW
2025 Highlights
W
Guadalajara
F
Eastbourne
SF
CanberraMiamiJingshan
SEE ALL

Currently the world no.53, the Filipino played her last match on the 30th of October when she capitulated to world no.18 Victoria Mboko 3-6 6-3 6-4 in the 2nd round in Hong Kong (draw).

This year Eala has managed to achieve a composed 40-26 record. Eala conquered 1 title in the Guadalajara. Eala was the finalist in Eastbourne.

Eala
Hong Kong
Eala's Record

Camila Giorgi sparks comeback hopes with practice video

By
Mark Hall
-
Camila Giorgi

Camila Giorgi has surprised her fans by sharing a video of herself back on the practice court, just months after announcing her sudden retirement from professional tennis. The Italian star, known for her powerful groundstrokes and fearless style of play, looked sharp as she hit through training drills, igniting speculation about a possible return.

Fans react with excitement

The video quickly spread across social media, with many supporters expressing their hopes of seeing Giorgi compete again. Her unexpected retirement earlier this year left followers stunned, and the sight of her practicing has rekindled dreams of a comeback.

A career of highlights

Giorgi’s career includes memorable victories on the WTA Tour, highlighted by her 2021 Canadian Open title where she defeated several top-ranked players. Her aggressive game and striking presence on court made her a fan favorite worldwide.

Future possibilities

While Giorgi has not officially announced any plans to return, the practice footage has fueled speculation. Whether it marks the beginning of a new chapter or simply a passion for staying close to the sport, her presence on court continues to inspire.

Tsitsipas shares holiday moments at the Indian Ocean with great pictures on Instagram

By
Mark Hall
-
Tsitsipas

Stefanos Tsitsipas has given fans a glimpse into his holiday break, posting pictures that capture the serene beauty of the Indian Ocean. The video introduces his getaway, highlighting peaceful coastal views and relaxed moments away from the tennis court.

Stefanos Tsitsipas in 2025

Stefanos Tsitsipas

25 - 21win/loss

Hard
14-11
I Hard
2-1
Clay
8-7
Grass
1-2
Rank
34
High
3
27 year old
LWLWLWWLWL
2025 Highlights
W
Dubai
QF
RotterdamMonte-CarloBarcelona
RR
Australia
SEE ALL

Currently the world no.34, the Greek played his last match on the 18th of December when he lost to world no.46 Daniel Altmaier 7-6(5) 1-6 4-6 6-3 7-5 in the 2nd round of the U.S. Open (draw).

This year Tsitsipas achieved a composed 22-18 record. This year, Tsitsipas clinched 1 title in Dubai.

Tsitsipas
U.S. Open
Tsitsipas's Record

Kristina Penickova crowned ITF junior girls’ world champion

By
Mark Hall
-
Perinkiva

Sixteen-year-old Kristina Penickova has capped off a remarkable 2025 season by being named the ITF junior girls’ world champion. Her achievements include two ITF junior singles titles and a pivotal role in helping the U.S. junior Billie Jean King Cup team secure its fourth consecutive trophy.

Rising to world No. 1

Penickova finished the year ranked junior girls’ world No. 1, a position she first claimed in October after reaching the final of the ITF World Tennis Tour Junior Finals. She is the first American to hold this honor since Whitney Osuigwe in 2017.

Breakout season highlights

Her season began with a runner-up finish at the Australian Open girls’ singles final in January. She went on to win the J300 North American Regional Championships in San Diego in March and the J200 in Chuncheon, South Korea, in October. Penickova also reached the final at the J500 in Osaka, Japan, and won all six of her matches at the Billie Jean King Cup Junior Finals.

Doubles success

Penickova’s doubles achievements were equally impressive. She won the Australian Open doubles title alongside her twin sister Annika Penickova and later captured the Wimbledon doubles crown with Vandula Valdmannova of Czechia.

Transition to the pro circuit

At the professional level, Penickova reached the singles final at the ITF World Tennis Tour W15 in Monastir, Tunisia, in May. She also competed in US Open qualifying as a wild card, signaling her growing presence in the senior ranks.

American juniors in the spotlight

Penickova is joined in the year-end Top 10 by teammate Julieta Pareja, ranked world No. 5 after her Wimbledon girls’ singles final appearance. On the boys’ side, Jack Kennedy (No. 6) and Benjamin Willwerth (No. 7) lead the American contingent.

Wheelchair rankings

The U.S. also saw strong performances in junior wheelchair tennis. Lucy Heald (No. 3) and Sabina Czauz (No. 5) finished among the top-ranked girls, while Charlie Cooper and Maximus Wong both closed the year inside the Top 10 for boys.

Recognition of excellence

ITF President David Haggerty praised the achievements of junior players worldwide, noting their contribution to the sport’s future. “Kristina Penickova’s success this season highlights the strength and depth of junior tennis, and we look forward to seeing her continued progress,” said Haggerty.

Emma Raducanu adds Hobart International to her 2026 schedule as she targets early-season rise

By
Alex Boyden
-
Raducanu

Emma Raducanu has taken another step in shaping her build‑up to the 2026 Australian Open by adding the Hobart International to her early‑season schedule. The 2021 US Open champion is aiming for a strong start to the year as she looks to climb the rankings after an injury‑interrupted period.

Her participation in Hobart was confirmed through the tournament’s official Instagram account, which celebrated her arrival with the message: “Grand Slam champ vibes at Hobart 2026, brought to us by Emma Raducanu,” posted by the Hobart International team.

A key stop before Melbourne

The Hobart International, a WTA 250 event held at the Domain Tennis Centre in Tasmania, will run from January 12–17. Founded in 1994, the tournament has long served as a valuable warm‑up for players heading into the Australian Open. American McCartney Kessler enters as the defending champion.

For Raducanu, Hobart will be her second event of the season, following her appearance at the United Cup. The additional tournament gives her more match play ahead of the year’s first Grand Slam, an important factor as she continues her push to regain momentum on the tour.

Starting the year at the United Cup

Before heading to Tasmania, Raducanu will represent Great Britain at the 2026 United Cup, taking place from January 2–11 across Brisbane, Sydney and Perth. She will team up with ATP star Jack Draper in the mixed‑gender competition, offering both players valuable competitive rhythm to open the season.

Great Britain has been placed in Group E alongside Greece and Japan, with all group matches scheduled in Perth. The event will provide Raducanu with high‑level opposition early on, setting the tone for her January campaign.

A focused approach to 2026

By committing to both the United Cup and the Hobart International, Raducanu is clearly prioritizing match sharpness and consistency as she targets a breakthrough start to 2026. With a structured schedule and renewed momentum, she enters the new season with a clear opportunity to rise in the rankings and reestablish herself among the tour’s top competitors.

Emma Raducanu in 2025

Emma Raducanu

29 - 23win/loss

Hard
18-15
I Hard
0-1
Clay
6-4
Grass
5-3
Rank
29
High
10
23 year old
LLLWWLWLWW
2025 Highlights
SF
Washington
QF
MiamiLondon
4th
Rome
SEE ALL

Ranked no.29, Raducanu played her last match on the 14th of October when she lost to world no.169 Lin Zhu 3-6 6-4 6-1 in the 1st round in Ningbo (draw).

This year Emma owns an overall 28-22 match record. Emma Raducanu’s best performance of the current season was reaching the semifinal in Washington.

Raducanu
Ningbo
Raducanu's Record

Potapova and Griekspoor spark further speculation during night out in Dubai

By
Luke Meyer
-
Potapova And Griekspoor Spark Further Speculation During Night Out In Dubai

Anastasia Potapova and Tallon Griekspoor continue to draw attention as their frequent appearances together fuel ongoing speculation about a possible relationship. Although neither player has confirmed anything publicly, their shared offseason activities suggest a close bond. Their latest outing—a night at a music concert in Dubai—has only intensified interest among fans.

Support on and off the court

Potapova, who recently changed her sporting nationality from Russia to Austria, has been seen supporting Griekspoor at several tournaments throughout the season. Their synchronized travel schedules added to the intrigue, especially when both headed to the Maldives after the 2025 campaign. Potapova even posted a blurred selfie that subtly included Griekspoor, a detail that tennis fans quickly picked up on.

A shared journey through the offseason

After their Maldives getaway, the pair traveled to Russia for the Northern Palmyra Trophies exhibition event in St. Petersburg. Potapova was returning to familiar territory, while Griekspoor was making his debut at the competition.

His participation, however, drew attention back home. Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs David van Weel publicly urged him to reconsider attending the event, citing ethical concerns. Despite the appeal, Griekspoor proceeded with his plans and expressed satisfaction upon arriving. “Actually, I was supposed to come here last year, but it didn’t work out,” Griekspoor said. “Now I’m glad I’m finally here.”

Enjoying Dubai before the new season

With the exhibition event behind them, Potapova and Griekspoor have returned to vacation mode, spending time together in Dubai. During a night out, Potapova stood out with her sleek ponytail and glittering black halterneck top, paired with jeans featuring distinctive cross details.

The relaxed outing comes at a time when Potapova appears to be embracing a fresh chapter in her personal life. Her divorce from fellow tennis player Alexander Shevchenko, finalized shortly after the 2024 US Open, is now firmly in the past.

As the new tennis season approaches, both players seem to be enjoying a well-earned break. Whether their connection is friendship or something more, their shared travels and public outings have certainly captured the attention of the tennis world.

Anastasia Potapova in 2025

Anastasia Potapova

24 - 16win/loss

Hard
10-11
I Hard
7-1
Clay
6-3
Grass
1-1
Rank
50
High
21
24 year old
LWWWLWLLWL
2025 Highlights
W
Napoca
QF
Linz
4th
MadridBeijing
SEE ALL

Now ranked no.50, Potapova played her last match on the 1st of October when she was defeated by world no.13 Linda Noskova 6-2 6-4 in the 4th round in Beijing (draw).

At present, during this year Potapova owns a 24-16 match record. Potapova conquered 1 title in Napoca.

Potapova
Beijing
Potapova's Record

Tallon Griekspoor in 2025

Tallon Griekspoor

38 - 27win/loss

Hard
14-12
I Hard
5-4
Clay
15-9
Grass
4-2
Rank
25
High
21
29 year old
LWWWLWWLLW
2025 Highlights
W
Mallorca
F
Marrakech
SF
DubaiBordeaux Challenger
SEE ALL

Ranked no.25, Tallon played his last match on the 28th of October when he lost to world no.41 Gabriel Diallo 6-3 6-4 in the 1st round in Paris (draw).

Currently, during this season Tallon owns a composed 32-24 match record. The Dutch clinched 1 title in Mallorca. Griekspoor was the finalist in Marrakech.

He is also scheduled to play in Hong Kong (Hong Kong Tennis Open). The main draw will start on the 30th of December.

Griekspoor
Paris
Griekspoor's Record
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