Félix Auger-Aliassime has begun working with Ivan Ljubicic, the former world No. 3 who previously coached Roger Federer and Marin Cilic, after parting ways with his coach of 10 years, Frédéric Fontang, following Wimbledon. The partnership starts at the Shanghai Masters in October 2026.
What has Auger-Aliassime said about the coaching change?
Auger-Aliassime described the transition as "very strange" but exciting, having worked with Fontang throughout his professional career. Speaking to Tennis TV ahead of Shanghai, the Canadian said he sought a new role model and mentor to learn from, emphasizing the importance of openness and communication in the early stages of collaboration with Ljubicic.
Auger-Aliassime told BB Tennis that his primary goal with Ljubicic is to prepare himself for major moments. "I think I've achieved good results in my career so far, but not the biggest results," he said, adding that he hopes to "win big together" with his new coach.
What experience does Ljubicic bring?
Ljubicic guided Federer to three of his 20 Grand Slam titles and coached Cilic to the 2018 US Open championship. Auger-Aliassime has previously worked with Toni Nadal, uncle of Rafael Nadal, as part of his coaching team, but Ljubicic marks his first change in primary coach at the professional level.
Sources
- Yahoo! Sports: Felix Auger-Aliassime reveals what Ivan Ljubicic has been telling him after hiring him as his new coach. Published 2026-10-08.
- Yahoo! Sports: Felix Auger-Aliassime states what he wants to learn from Roger Federer's old coach after hiring him. Published 2026-10-08.
Reported from public sources.