MELBOURNE—Eugenie Bouchard will be working with Diego Ayala, a former coach of Jelena Jankovic, during the Australian Open.
The world No. 7 parted ways with longtime coach Nick Saviano last November, and she had yet to commit to another coach this year. But she said that her and Ayala were hitting during December and the beginning of January.
"He was someone I worked with when I was younger," Bouchard said. "So there's that familiarity I have with him right now which is good. He's been on tour with a few players, can hit really well, as well. He just knows me from when I was younger. You don't get that on the tour now so much. So I think that's helpful for me right now."
Ayala was with Bouchard at the Hopman Cup, but Bouchard has not decided whether they will continue working together after the Australian Ope. She also did not say what she would call his position.
"Well, describe him how you want," the 20-year-old said. "But for me, we decided to come to Australia together. I don't know where it's going to go, but that's the plan for now."