Alizé Cornet has officially stepped into the role of head coach for the French Billie Jean King Cup team, just a few months after concluding her professional playing career. The announcement was made by the French Tennis Federation on November 2, 2025, following a thorough assessment of potential candidates. Her selection was driven by her notable dedication to the sport and commitment to advancing French tennis, along with her proven leadership abilities.
Cornet will take over the position from Julien Benneteau, who has been at the helm since 2019. At 35, she embraces a multifaceted role that includes not only leading the national team but also preparing athletes for the upcoming Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028. Additional responsibilities will involve closely monitoring players during international competitions and overseeing the development of youth teams.
In expressing her gratitude for this opportunity, Cornet stated, “I appreciate the trust the federation has placed in me, and I am determined to do everything I can to help our players reach their full potential. My goal is to build a strong team spirit, based on high standards, solidarity, and a passion for the French jersey.”
Cornet’s transition to coaching follows her retirement announcement after a first-round exit at the Roland Garros event earlier this year. Throughout her distinguished 20-year career, Cornet was recognized as a prodigy, achieving her career-best ranking of No. 11 in 2009 and securing six WTA titles. Notably, she holds the record for the longest consecutive streak of Grand Slam appearances by a female player, with 69 tournaments played from the 2007 Australian Open through to the 2023 French Open.
Beyond her tennis accomplishments, Cornet is also an aspiring author. She published her debut novel, “La Valse des Jours” (Waltz of Days), in 2022, showcasing her talents beyond the court. As she embarks on this new journey as a coach, there is an air of optimism about her ability to inspire the next generation of French tennis players.
