Currently competing in Riyadh for the Next Gen ATP Finals, Arthur Fils is poised for a bright future. The 2024 season has been his time to shine, clinching titles in Tokyo and securing a stellar win against Alexander Zverev at Hamburg with a score of 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(1). Since turning pro in 2021, he has steadily climbed the ranks and now sits at No. 20 in the ATP rankings at just 20 years old.

Behind Fils’ success are two talented coaches with impressive backgrounds. One served as the captain of France’s Davis Cup team, while the other is a two-time Grand Slam champion. Together, they form a formidable coaching duo that guides Fils on his journey to greatness.

The brains behind the young ATP star’s reign

Sébastien Grosjean, who joined Fils’ coaching team last season, brings a wealth of experience from his own illustrious career in professional tennis. The former French player not only secured four singles titles but also reached the top five in the ATP rankings. Known for his adaptability on various surfaces, Grosjean made impressive semifinal runs at the Australian and French Opens in 2001, as well as at Wimbledon in 2003 and 2004.

After hanging up his racket in 2010, Grosjean transitioned into coaching, taking charge of Richard Gasquet from 2011 to 2016. His leadership abilities were recognized when he was appointed captain of France’s Davis Cup team. In 2023, he stepped down from that role to focus on mentoring the promising young talent, Arthur Fils, who recently shone as a finalist at the Antwerp tournament. Grosjean expressed his enthusiasm for this new journey, stating, “It is with great emotion but also great excitement that I am preparing to open this new chapter alongside Arthur Fils.”

In his new role, Grosjean has lauded Fils as an “exceptional player with immense potential,” expressing confidence in their collaboration. He also fondly reflected on his time with the France Davis Cup team, wishing them all “the success they deserve in competition.” Supporting them on this journey is Lapo Becherini, Fils’ Strength and Conditioning Coach, who adds another layer of expertise to the team as they work together to elevate Fils’ game on the ATP Tour.

Who else helped Arthur along his journey in tennis?

Lapo Becherini is a seasoned Italian strength and conditioning coach with over 10 years in tennis and more than 12 years in Spanish football. He spent the last five years at the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy, coaching notable players like Holger Rune and Ugo Humbert. His experience also includes working with LaLiga clubs such as Levante U.D. and Cordoba CF. In 2018, he founded ProAthletesPerformance to enhance athletic performance by understanding sport-specific movement requirements.

Before this, Sergi Bruguera was part of Arthur Fils’ coaching team until they parted ways after Fils’ first-round loss at the 2024 French Open. The former player, a two-time French Open champion, made a significant impact on the men’s tour before retiring in 2002. Known for his clay court prowess, Bruguera reached a career-high ranking of number 3 and won a silver medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. He has coached top players like Alexander Zverev and Richard Gasquet prior to joining Fils.

With talented coaches like Sebastien Grosjean now guiding him, Fils is on the right track. Grosjean remarked on Fils’ character back in October, as reported by FootBoom, “Arthur is a good boy,” and noted their age difference: “And he’s even younger than some of my kids.” He appreciates Fils’ strong work ethic and down-to-earth nature but admits they sometimes clash over travel habits. Do you think we’ll see Fils conquer the tennis scene in the coming season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!