Russian tennis star Maria Sharapova has hired a new coach who proved himself as a winner during his tennis career.
After firing coach Thomas Hogstedt this week, Sharapova announced on her website that she's going to train under the tutelage of eight-time Grand Slam champion Jimmy Connors from now on.
Connors, who served as a coach for Andy Roddick before the former U.S. Open winner retired from the sports, will now monitor the conditioning and training of the four-time Grand Slam champion.
Hogstedt was credited to Sharapova's resurgence after the Russian underwent several surgeries, particularly on her back. However, Sharapova was told by Hogstedt that he would be unable to travel in the coming months, prompting her to find a new coach.
The 26-year-old Sharapova is coming off a shocking second-round exit at the 2013 Wimbledon Open. Prior to that, the Russian managed to reach her second consecutive final appearance at Roland Garros, only to fall against eventual winner Serena Williams in straight sets.
Nevertheless, Sharapova is still ranked second in the WTA World Ranking and she's expected to be one of the top contenders in the upcoming hard-court season.
Sharapova, who completed a career Grand Slam last year, is gunning for her first US Open title since winning her first one at Queens, New York in 2006.
"I am really excited about our new partnership and looking forward to the upcoming tournaments," Sharapova said about the hiring of Connors on her website, according to USA Today.
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