World number 24 Karen Khachanov recently offered his thoughts on the coaching relationship between his fellow Russian player Andrey Rublev and tennis legend Marat Safin.
When asked if he still had faith in their collaboration, especially since expectations were high when they first started working together, Khachanov suggested that his personal belief is secondary.
“Honestly, the main thing is whether Andrey and Marat themselves believe in their partnership,” Khachanov stated. “It`s not really my place to comment on it. It depends more on the specialists involved, just like it would for me.”
He drew a comparison to his own experience: “For example, I started working with a new fitness coach, and the very next week people are asking, `How is it?` I like it. Maybe results will come immediately, or maybe it will take some time. Nobody knows. Perhaps Andrey will win Roland Garros now.”
Khachanov concluded that speculating is “pointless.” “The most important thing is that he feels comfortable, he enjoys it, he feels that it helps him, and he is moving in the right direction. Results, while seemingly important, are sometimes secondary and not the only indicator.”
Marcus Prine