Sharapova splits with coach

Maria Sharapova has split with Swedish coach Thomas Hogstedt after almost three years working together.

The pair linked up at the end of the 2010 season and Hogstedt helped Sharapova return to the top of the game after her shoulder problems.

Their best moment together came last summer when Sharapova completed her set of grand slam titles by winning the French Open and reclaimed the world number one ranking.

The news comes two weeks after Sharapova, now ranked number two behind Serena Williams, crashed out in the second round of Wimbledon to Michelle Larcher De Brito.

In a statement on her website, Sharapova said: “After almost three years of working together, Thomas Hogstedt and I decided to part ways.

“Due to personal issues, he was not able to travel in the near future and we both agreed it was the right time to move our separate ways.

“I am very thankful for all his work, and wish him much success in the future.

“I will be announcing my new coach in a few days. Very excited!”