Davidovich Fokina’s Coach Departure Creates Stir at French Open

At the French Open, Alejandro Davidovich Fokina experienced an unexpected change in his coaching team. Following his five-set victory in the first round, the Spanish player learned that his coach, Mariano Puerta, had departed Paris. Davidovich Fokina shared that he had lunch with Puerta, a former Roland Garros finalist, before Puerta left to rest. Puerta had mentioned feeling unwell before returning to his hotel.

Davidovich Fokina received a message from Puerta later that afternoon stating he would not continue. This occurred just hours before Davidovich Fokina faced Thiago Agustín Tirante, resulting in a second-round defeat with scores of 4-6, 7-6 (4), 6-1, 6-3. Puerta did not inform the coaching staff prior to his departure for Miami.

Davidovich Fokina mentioned that Puerta had exhibited similar behavior with other players. During a press conference, he noted, “It seems normal for him.” Puerta’s career in tennis has been marked by controversy. The Argentine player served two bans for doping offenses. After reaching the 2005 French Open final, he tested positive for etilefrine, a prohibited stimulant, resulting in an eight-year suspension. He later admitted to lying to reduce the ban to two years, according to an interview with La Nacion newspaper.

Initially, Puerta claimed his positive test was due to drinking from a glass used by his then-wife for medication containing etilefrine. Fifteen years later, he attributed the positive test to ginseng and caffeine pills prepared by a friend of his coach. Puerta, who also tested positive for an anabolic steroid in 2003, retired from professional tennis in 2009.

Reflecting on the situation, Davidovich Fokina remarked, “I thought he was a very good person. It was my fault to hire him.” Puerta has not publicly responded to Davidovich Fokina’s comments.

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