Paul Annacone levels up with a new achievement unlocked as he rewrites the playbook of success. While many tennis fans know him as Roger Federer’s former coach, he has been there for him after helping the 42-year-old succeed and even creating a name for himself. The ATP champion and the Grand Slam-winning coach is ready to join the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2024.

Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame recognizes the achievements made by players, coaches, teams, authors, and administrators in tennis. However, this year, the individual who supported the 20-time Grand Slam champion will receive recognition for his coaching efforts.

Roger Federer’s ex-coach to receive a special honor 

This year, the 60-year-old American tennis coach will receive recognition for his achievements and contributions to the sport. He will be given this honor on July 20 in Nashville. As someone from Tennessee himself, he achieved a career ranking of No. 12 on the ATP tour and, along the way, won three singles titles.

Further, he became a Grand Slam champion in 1985 when he picked up the Australian Open Doubles title alongside his doubles partner, Christo van Rensburg. But rather than being known for his accomplishments as a player, he is more recognized for his role as a tennis coach.

Not only did he guide Federer to his 2012 Wimbledon victory, but he was also there with Pete Sampras to help him capture nine out of his 14 Grand Slam titles, becoming one of the most accomplished tennis coaches of that time. However, now that he is helping the rising sensation Taylor Fritz achieve similar heights on the court, he is also balancing his role as a tennis analyst.

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Subsequently, even Tracy Austin and Brett Haber, who have seen his tennis talent, shared their feelings about the 42-year-old tennis legend’s ex-coach receiving such an honor.

Federer’s ex-coach receives heartfelt greetings

According to Tennis.com, the 61-year-old WTA tennis player acknowledged Federer’s ex-coach’s contribution to the sport. She also stated, “He’s just a winner at every level. Every time we listen to Paul, we learn.”

Further, even commentator Brett Haber talked about the happy feeling of Annacone getting this honor. He highlighted, “He’s so self-effacing about everything he accomplished, both as a player and a coach. Don’t kid yourself, Paul is the wizard behind the curtain. He’s one of the true brilliant minds in our sport.” While the Sports Hall of Frames enlistment is not yet completed, it will be interesting to see who joins Federer’s former coach in the honor line.

Nevertheless, what are your thoughts on Annacone’s honor? Let us know in the comment section below.