• Former coach of Pete Sampras to help out for a trial period
• ‘I am excited to learn from his experiences’ says Federer

Roger Federer has hired Paul Annacone, a former coach of Pete Sampras and Tim Henman, for a test period as he seeks a return to winning ways.

The 16-time grand slam champion has slumped from No1 in the ATP rankings earlier this season to third following his quarter-final loss at Wimbledon – his lowest position since November 2003.

Annacone is leaving his position as head coach of men’s tennis in Britain in November.

“I’ve been looking to add someone to my team and I’ve decided to spend some days with Paul Annacone,” Federer said about the American on his website.

“As Paul winds down his responsibilities working for the Lawn Tennis Association, we will explore our relationship through this test period. Paul will work alongside my existing team and I am excited to learn from his experiences.”