Chang’s slam effect rubs off
Print Edition
MICHAEL Chang knows what it takes to win a grand slam title as a player. Lately, as a coach, he’s been trying to transmit some of that knowledge to Kei Nishikori while helping guide him to the US Open final.
Chang has been an animated presence in the courtside guest box the past two weeks, including on Saturday, when Nishikori beat top-seeded Novak Djokovic 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4), 6-3 to become the first Japanese man to reach a grand slam title match.
He leans on the railing at key moments. He jumps to his feet and vigorously pumps his fists after some points. He yells encouragement after others.
“It’s been really helpful when I (am) getting, I don’t know, tired or frustrated,” Nishikori said. “You know, he can help me from the box, too.”
Stefan Edberg — a contemporary of Chang’s in the 1980s and 1990s, and now coaching Roger Federer — noticed the enthusiasm with which Chang hangs on every point while Nishikori competes.
“Stefan made a comment to me yesterday. He goes: ‘Well, you’re watching on the sidelines, but it kind of looks like you’re playing.’ Because the intensity and stuff is there,” said Chang, who was 17 when he won the 1989 French Open, still the record for youngest male champion at a major.
“But it’s hard not to be excited. It’s hard not to be passionate about seeing Kei do well,” Chang continued.
Nishikori’s agent, Olivier van Lindonk, first spoke to Chang about the idea of pairing up with the player during last year’s US Open. In December, they began working together.
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