Strycova makes move in Czech coaches' carousel

Reportedly, Barbora Strycova was somewhat taken aback when she had to find a new coach.

As it turns out, she didn’t have to look too far when picking a replacement for Tomas Krupa. The Czech Fed Cup stalwart announced on Instagram that she will be working with compatriot David Kotyza in 2018.

That name should sound familiar. Kotzya formerly coached two of Strycova’s countrywomen: Petra Kvitova, whom he helped to two Wimbledon titles; and Karolina Pliskova, who became No. 1 in the world under his direction.

“I think now there is no better female coach in the Czech Republic,” Strycova said in her post.

Kotzya and Pliskova parted ways toward the end of 2017, and then Pliskova hired Strycova’s coach at the time, Krupa. Strycova was coming off another consistent season, managing to break a six-year title drought by winning her second WTA title in Linz in October.

Rounding out Strycova’s team will be two-time men’s doubles Grand Slam champ and compatriot Lukas Dlouhy.

Strycova finished 2017 ranked No. 23 in singles and No. 15 in doubles.

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