Guy Forget to Coach Hugo Gaston at the Brest Challenger

Former French tennis player Guy Forget is set to coach Hugo Gaston during the upcoming Challenger tournament in Brest, starting October 26. The announcement brings a new development to Gaston's season as he prepares to defend his title in Brittany.

Gaston, currently ranked 93rd in the world, has been without a permanent coach since Tristan Lamasine departed following the conclusion of the US Open. His search for guidance intensified after a first-round exit in Brussels, where he was defeated in straight sets by British player Jacob Fearnley.

While the initial agreement covers only the tournament in Brest, industry speculation suggests the partnership could extend further if the week proves successful. Forget, who is 61 years old and a former world number 4, stated that he prefers to take things step by step and cautioned against rushing into a permanent title.

The prospective collaboration marks a novel experience for Forget, who has previously served as the captain of the French Davis Cup and Fed Cup teams. Historically, Forget won the Davis Cup in 1991 as a player under the leadership of Yannick Noah, but he has never before worked as a personal coach on the professional circuit.

According to reports, the initiative to bring in Forget was suggested by Isabelle Inschauspé, Gaston's mental trainer. The arrangement will allow Forget to evaluate the demands of personal coaching closely by observing the player in both competitive matches and practice sessions.

Reflecting on his potential transition into coaching in a previous interview, Forget acknowledged openness to future roles involving guidance or consulting. With the current arrangement in Brittany, the former champion is stepping directly into a hands-on role to finish out the tennis season.