Donna Vekic names Sascha Bajin as her new coach for 2025

With just weeks to go before the start of the 2025 WTA Tour, Donna Vekic has confirmed changes to her team. Following an impressive season that saw her reach the Wimbledon semifinals and secure a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Croatian star is aiming for an even greater breakthrough.

Less than a month ago, Vekic announced the end of her partnership with coach Nick Horvat, who had previously worked with players like Borna Coric and Magda Linette. “Even though we have decided to part ways, I believe that Donna has many great tennis moments ahead of her, and I will always be proud of her success,” wrote Horvat after the split was confirmed.

The 28-year-old experienced a resurgence under Horvat’s guidance, climbing to World No. 19. Now, she looks to take her career further by hiring top-tier coach Sascha Bajin. The German tennis coach is best known for his work with Naomi Osaka, whom he helped capture her first two Grand Slam titles at the 2018 US Open and 2019 Australian Open.

Bajin, who previously served as a hitting partner for Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka, and Caroline Wozniacki, began his formal coaching career in 2018 with Osaka. He has since worked with players like Kristina Mladenovic, Dayana Yastremska, Karolina Pliskova, and, most recently, Alycia Parks. His accolades include being named WTA Coach of the Year in 2018.

Photos of Vekic and Bajin preparing for their new partnership have already surfaced on social media. Their first challenge together will likely be the 2025 United Cup, where World No. 19 Vekic will represent Croatia alongside Borna Coric. Croatia is set to compete in Group A in Perth, facing formidable teams from the USA (Coco Gauff, Taylor Fritz) and Canada (Leylah Fernandez, Felix Auger-Aliassime).