The coach of Arthur Rinderknech, a player who caused a major shock at the US Open, has a fascinating history. In 2016, this coach stunned Rafael Nadal, a tennis legend, by knocking him out of the US Open. It was a challenging year for Nadal, who had to withdraw from the Roland Garros and Wimbledon due to a wrist injury. Despite this setback, Nadal made a strong return at the US Open, reaching the fourth round without dropping a set. However, it was the coach's player, Lucas Pouille, who made a remarkable impact. Pouille, the 24th-seeded Frenchman, defeated Nadal in a thrilling five-set match on Arthur Ashe Stadium. This victory marked the worst Grand Slam season for Nadal since 2004, while Pouille's performance showcased his potential. Pouille's journey continued, as he won his first ATP title shortly after the US Open and finished the year ranked world number 15. He went on to achieve even greater success, reaching the top 10 in 2018 and the Australian Open semifinals in 2019. However, Pouille's career took a turn when he underwent elbow surgery in 2020, leading to a decline in his rankings. In 2025, a devastating Achilles tendon rupture during a Challenger tournament in Lille forced Pouille to consider retirement. At 31, he admitted it could be a career-ending injury, and he hasn't played since. Yet, there's a twist! Pouille recently revealed his intention to return to the court in 2026 and has been coaching Arthur Rinderknech, who reached a career-high ranking after their collaboration. This unexpected turn of events highlights the dynamic nature of tennis, where coaches and players can have a profound impact on each other's careers.
