Jo could sign Maria’s coach

AMERICAN tennis coach Michael Joyce paved the way for a potential link-up with Jo Konta by announcing he will no longer be guiding former world No1 Victoria azarenka.

Joyce, best known for his work with Maria sharapova, has been among the candidates to replace Wim Fissette — the coach Konta unexpectedly parted with after her disappointing end to the season.

since Wimbledon, azarenka has been locked in a bitter custody battle over her son with former partner Billy McKeague and a court order has severely restricted her tournament play.

Joyce said of azarenka: ‘it is with deep regret that i have decided to move forward with my coaching career while she continues to work out her private life.’

He is believed to have had discussions with British No 1 Konta, who was yesterday named on the shortlist for sports Personality of the Year.

Californian Joyce, 44, reached the world top 70 as a player and his best performance came when making the last 16 at Wimbledon in 1996.