Tennis: Agassi and Gilbert part company

Andre Agassi and Brad Gilbert have decided to end one of the most successful player-coach relationships in tennis history.

During his eight years with Gilbert, Agassi won six Grand Slam titles, a gold medal at the 1996 Olympics and held the No. 1 ranking in the world at the end of 1999.

Agassi is the only man to have won all four Grand Slam titles as well as an Olympic gold medal.

"Brad is clearly the greatest coach of all time," Agassi said in a joint statement.

"I have been lucky to have him as my guiding force during the past eight years of my career.

"More importantly, I am lucky that I have been able to call him friend for eight years and that our friendship remains intact."

Gilbert called his years with Agassi one of the biggest highlights of his 22 years in professional tennis.

"After eight amazing years, we have decided on equal terms to end our professional coaching status and remain the best of friends," he said.

"It was a beautiful opportunity, which blossomed into one of the most successful player/coach relationships both on and off the tour.

"I look forward to staying in tennis for many years to come and wish Andre continued success.

"It has been an honor and a privilege just to watch him play."