Azarenka splits with Michael Joyce, who could become Konta's coach

Victoria Azarenka and coach Michael Joyce have stopped working together, according to a statement from Joyce.

The former coach of Maria Sharapova began working with Azarenka as she geared up to return to the tour this summer, following the birth of her first child. But Joyce said he had reluctantly decided to "move forward" following the private roadblock that has arisen since her return.

According to the BBC, Joyce was seen in discussion with Johanna Konta, who recently stopped working with her coach, suggesting a future partnership.

Azarenka has not played since Wimbledon, which was her second event as she returned from childbirth. The Belarussian is in a custody dispute which limits her travel with her son, Leo.

She is scheduled to return at the beginning of next season at Auckland, but no custody decision or agreement has been announced.

Azarenka is No. 209 in the rankings.

Tennis Channel presents TenniStory, on former No. 1 Victoria Azarenka: