Daniil Medvedev has confirmed his split with former world No. 6 Gilles Simon after a year-long coaching partnership. The Russian star arrived at the ABN Amro Open in Rotterdam with a revamped team, keeping long-time coach Gilles Cervara by his side while parting ways with Simon.
“It was a good experience,” Medvedev shared in a pre-tournament press conference. “There were a lot of positives, and Gilles [Cervara] and I have taken valuable lessons from it. Unfortunately, the results weren’t what we hoped for—we didn’t win a title or a Grand Slam. But I learned a lot, gained a new perspective on tennis, and I’m sure it will help me moving forward.”
Since reaching the world No. 1 ranking in 2022, Medvedev has faced injuries and inconsistent form, leading to a title drought since his victory at the 2023 Italian Open. His 2025 season started with personal joy—welcoming his second child with wife Daria—but his Australian Open campaign ended early, with a surprising second-round loss to American teenager Learner Tien.
Reflecting on his career shift, Medvedev acknowledged how the fire within him has evolved. “When you’re 20, you come onto the Tour with fearless energy. At 28, nearly 29, it’s a different kind of fire. The margins are small, and you have to keep pushing forward,” he explained.
Despite the split, there are no hard feelings between Medvedev and Simon. “We remain on good terms, but we’re not working together anymore,” he said. Meanwhile, Cervara remains Medvedev’s head coach as he looks to bounce back in Rotterdam, where he is seeded No. 2 behind Carlos Alcaraz.
Medvedev faces a tough opening match against former world No. 3 and Grand Slam champion Stan Wawrinka. As he aims for his first title since 2023, fans will be watching closely to see if this coaching change sparks a resurgence in his game.
Will this new chapter bring Medvedev back to the top? Only time will tell.
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