Sport | Tennis
Roddick says parting with Connors was amicable
America's Andy Roddick knows life will go on without the services of his coach Jimmy Connors.
- By Alaric Gomes, Senior Reporter
- Published: 00:02 March 9, 2008
- Image Credit: Megan Hirons/Gulf News
- Roddick has been in awesome form in recent weeks.
Dubai: America's Andy Roddick knows life will go on without the services of his coach Jimmy Connors.
Roddick confirmed they had split last week after his quarterfinal loss to Robin Soderling in Memphis after 19 months together.
"It was amicable. It was tough asking him to be there for me all the while when I was travelling," Roddick said explaining the move.
"It is sad, but we decided on an amicable parting last week," he said after winning in straight sets against Rafael Nadal on Thursday.
Roddick has been in awesome form in recent weeks, winning in San Jose a fortnight ago and reaching the quarters in Memphis.
"It has nothing to do with the results. I am not too worried about the coach at the moment. I can do without one," Roddick said.
Roddick is coached by his brother John and also works with former ATP trainer Doug Spreen. He also reiterated he would not go back to former coach Brad Gilbert or the US Davis Cup coach Patrick McEnroe.
Mentor and guide
"I would never take away Patrick from the team, and I would never go back to Gilbert. So for the moment it is just John, Doug and I," Roddick confirmed.
Roddick is convinced Connors will always be a friend, mentor and guide to him. "I am sure his phone number is still open and he won't hang up on me," Roddick stated.
Roddick admitted he felt guilty for dragging Connors out of retirement. "I was keeping him away from his golf. He loves to walk his dogs and he couldn't do it because of me. I enjoyed my time with him, both on and off the court," Roddick said.
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