Frances Tiafoe’s former coach reveals what he told him just before their split

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Frances Tiafoe and David Witt parted ways after more than a year working together, with the split coming at the end of 2023 when Tiafoe decided to end his season early.

Tiafoe chose to finish his season early in October following a rough stretch, which included disappointing results at both the US Open and the Davis Cup.

Since then, he’s climbed back into the ATP Tour top 20, thanks to strong showings at both the Miami Open and Acapulco while working under new coach Todd Martin.

Now six months on from their split, Witt has shed light on one of the final pieces of advice he gave Tiafoe before they went their separate ways.

David Witt’s advice to Frances Tiafoe before they split

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While Tiafoe didn’t win any titles under Witt, he did make it to the Houston Open final in 2025.

Witt, reflecting on his time with Tiafoe, shared on the Inside-In Tennis Podcast that he valued the experience.

“I think it’s more about a little bit of strategy but it’s more about competing and just being a dog. I think it’s extremely hard to win on the men’s tour. I think one thing we try to work hard on was the serve and getting more free points on the serve,” he said.

He also pointed out that better fitness would be key for Tiafoe if he wanted to get back up in the rankings.

“But at the end of the year when we stopped, I’m glad he is doing better, but the one thing I told him before we ended is that you have to get into the best shape of your life in 2026.”

“I was good with him because I told him that and then he fired me! And he got in good shape. But he needed to, so he could compete the way that he needs to and play points. I love Frances. He’s awesome. He’s hard to not like and is always smiling, so it’s good.”