Aryna Sabalenka ended her coaching partnership with Max Mirnyi ahead of the WTA Finals, tennisnet.com reported on Nov. 13, 2026. The world No. 2 traveled to Indian Wells without her long-term adviser and coach.
The decision follows an uneven season that started with a title in Brisbane, a runner-up finish at the Australian Open, and Sunshine Double titles in Indian Wells and Miami. Sabalenka later reached the US Open final, where she lost to Elena Rybakina.
“Yes, I mean, we’re not officially working anymore, but Max is just the kind of person who is always there for me—we are in constant contact, he always gives me advice, and I can call him anytime,” Sabalenka told tennisnet.com after her defeat against Mirra Andreeva.
Despite ending the official arrangement, the four-time Grand Slam singles champion left open the possibility of reuniting with the former doubles world No. 1. Sabalenka and Mirnyi are both from Belarus.
“So we officially ended the cooperation, but maybe—who knows—we will find each other again next year or in a few years,” Sabalenka told tennisnet.com.
The player is reshaping her entire support structure for the upcoming tour stops. “Right now there are some changes in my team. Hopefully with a view to a better future. I changed my hitting partner, I think since we were in Europe. Plus I have a new physiotherapist and possibly another coach is coming,” Sabalenka told tennisnet.com.
Sabalenka sought to salvage her season in the California desert by chasing the tour’s biggest year-end title. To advance to the semifinals of the WTA Finals, she needed a win in a direct group-stage match against Elina Svitolina.
Mirnyi had already missed the trip to Indian Wells as personnel shifts took effect within the camp. Group play concluded with Sabalenka facing the Ukrainian competitor.
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