By Lauren Lynch

(Decemeber 7, 2010) With the new year approaching, World No. 5 Robin Soderling decided it is a time for a change in his game. To be specific he is ‘ out with the old’ coach and ‘in with the new’ coach. He split up with countryman Magnus Norman to join forces with Italian Claudio Pistolesi.

Why did Soderling and him split up? Soderling reported on his website and said, “I have had the two best years of my career so far with Magnus as a coach, and I am very thankful for the commitment that he has shown during this period of time. It would have been fun and exciting to continue, but I have reached a point in my career where I need a coach who can put in the time necessary, and focus 100% on my tennis. Which is why I still feel as if this is the right decision for us both, and we part as good friends.”

Norman wants to dedicate more time for his personal life and Soderling requires a full time commitment.

Soderling’s future looks bright with Pistolesi even though Soderling originally looked into working with Fredrik Rosengren, Peter Lundgren, and Thomas Hogstedt. Pistolesi came highly recommended by his former coach. Claudio formally coached Monica Seles, who was a former World No. 1 and won 9 majors. He also coached other WTA players, Anna Smashnova and Ai Sugiyama, who was the former World No. 1 in doubles and No. 8 in singles. He coached ATP Players countrymen Davide Sanguinetti and Simone Bolelli.

What does Soderling have in sotor for him in 2011? Up hill or down?