Australian Roger Rasheed has parted company with his second French ATP client as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga ended a relationship of less than a year. The Adelaide coach formerly worked with Gael Monfils.

With Swiss-based Tsonga missing the US Open injured, the time seemed to be right for a change, especially with Rasheed living halfway around the globe.

Tsonga has not played since the Wimbledon second round due to a knee injury and missed the entire summer hardcourt season. The eighth-ranked Frenchman blamed cultural, language and distance issues which were “restraining our collaboration” for his decision to sack Rasheed, one-time mentor to Lleyton Hewitt.

“I really enjoyed my time with Jo and helped create a high performance platform for his support. I wish him the best and look forward to my next challenge,” said Rasheed, a former Australian Rules football stadium announcer.

Tsonga told French media that he was actively looking for a new coach in time for his return to the game. The big man went without for a year before taking on Rasheed.