It’s a good news/bad news/Big News day for James Blake fans. Blake’s out of the China Open, but played Rafael Nadal tough, losing 5-7, 7-6(4), 3-6 in what was reportedly “some of the most outstanding and intense tennis thus far in the tournament.”
And in Big News that I had no clue about, ESPN is reporting that Blake stopped working with his long-time (as in 17 years together) coach Brian Barker after the US Open and is now with friend and former-pro Kelly Jones:
“It’s not like we’re ending our relationship,” Blake said by telephone from Beijing. “We’re still good friends, which will never change. Right now we both feel like I need to hear some things from a different voice. Kelly’s been close to both of us for a long time, and he’s a perfect fit for now. If things go well with him, everyone’s happy. Brian wants nothing but the best for me. If they don’t, then I go back to Brian and we know there’s a reason I’m back. It was just time to take a little break and see how it goes with someone else.”
Brian Barker reportedly suggested the coaching change, which Blake resisted, at first:
“I told him that the most important thing in his tennis career is to have a clear head and peace of mind for the rest of your life that you did everything you possibly could to get better, maximize your potential and not leave anything on the table,” Barker said Thursday. “He eventually agreed that was a good idea.”
Kelly Jones was ranked No. 1 in doubles in 1992, was a member of the US Olympic team in ‘84, and won two singles titles on the ATP tour. He has coached Mardy Fish and Xavier Malisse. For more on Jones, click here.
All I can say is: FINALLY! I just worry that it’s too little, too late. What do you think?
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Tags: ATP, Blake, China Open, Kelly Jones, tennis
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Freakyfrites, you took the words right out of my mouth! I mean, obviously Barker's done a lot for James, but come on! It hasn't worked for a couple of years now. I'm kind of afraid those years were prime ones, too. I just hope James listens to Kelly and stops deciding to blast every ball. Even though I think James hates him more than anything after the Olympics, if he were to go back and look at how Fernando Gonzalez played after hooking up with Stefanki, it could do wonders for him.
If James doesn't start slicing and looping more backhands, as well as hitting more consistent forehand approaches (which I think Jones will tell him to do), then I think he's uncoachable and might as well go back to Barker.
Hi Van!
"I'm kind of afraid those years were prime ones, too."
Yep, I think that's the problem.
It's also interesting that Barker says that Kelly shares many of his opinions as a coach. And that Kelly is a friend of both Barker and Blake. So in this case I'm thinking this switch is an attempt to get the same message from a different messenger. It doesn't sound like a guru-pupil type relationship a la Stefanki-Roddick.
James is a really interesting case. Do you think he really has fulfilled his potential? Do you think he overachieved? I've always felt like there was something missing with James – but it's hard for me to put my finger on. He has a great family and support system, he's smart, well-educated, good-looking, likable, he's buddy-buddy with most of the Americans – and maybe all this is good enough for him. Unlike some of the other guys, he just doesn't seem to live and breathe for tennis. At least his well-adjusted personality will serve him well post-retirement. . .
I don’t think it will make much difference. It’s just too late in his career. But one never knows. Andy Roddick responds well to new coaches, so we’ll see.
I agree that James may just have too healthy an attitude about life to be at the top of tennis. But I find him to be a very admirable guy. He may not win a major, but who has in the last few years? There are a lot of guys in the same position right now — facing the limitations of time and ability. James from all accounts is a really good guy, who represents the game well, and puts a premium on loyalty and friendship. I hope he gets results from the change and has a comeback, but even if it doesn't happen, I think he can look back on his career with a lot of pride and satisfaction.
my first thought was also FINALLY. not only for james but also for brian barker, who might have been the most loyal and frustrated coach. i've never been able to get behind james. he just refused to have a plan b. however, he is very fit, full of talent and if he's motivated, believes he can improve and gives it all he's got, who knows what can happen. i hope he does well and that i'll be inspired to watch him play.