The last day of 2020 struck a blow for Grand Slam winner Sofia Kenin after it was confirmed that her management agency have decided not to renew their contract with her.
Top Five Management has issued a statement saying that they wish to no longer collaborate with the world No.4 due to what they describe as ‘difficulties with the athletes environment.’ Although they didn’t elaborate on what they mean by this phrase and if there was any conflict between the two. The agency currently represents various tennis players such as Elina Svitolina, Dayana Yastremska and Ons Jabeur.
“Due to difficulties with the athlete’s environment, Top Five Management has decided not to extend its collaboration with Sofia Kenin,” a statement reads.
“After joining Top Five Management, the U.S. tennis rising star delivered an outstanding performance during season 2020 – notably winning the Australian Open and reaching the final at the French Open.’
“Top Five Management wishes Sofia all the best for the future.”
Kenin first joined Top Five at the start of 2020 and shortly before she won the biggest title of her career at the Australian Open. Since then, the American has continued to enjoy success on the WTA Tour by winning the Lyon Open, as well as reaching the final of the French Open. Overall, she has won 24 out of 33 matches played this season. In December she was named the WTA’s Player of the Year.
There has been no comment from Kenin or her team regarding the decision by Top Five. It is also currently unclear as to who will be representing her instead. Forbes Magazine has ranked her as the eighth highest paid female athlete of 2020 with $4.8M in prize money and a further $1M in endorsements.
The 22-year-old is set to return to action during the first week of January at the Abu Dhabi Women’s Tennis Open where she will be the top seed. The is set to be eight top 20 players participating in the tournament which will start on January 5th.
