British tennis has been paying tribute to Julien Hoferlin following the popular coach's death from cancer on Friday at the age of 49.
Belgian Hoferlin was employed by the Lawn Tennis Association for six years up until 2014 and worked with many players, including coaching Dan Evans and Oli Golding on an individual basis.
Evans tweeted a picture of Hoferlin working with the British Davis Cup team accompanied by the message: "This picture says it all always laughing and joking. Life is too short. This is how I'll remember you mate."
Hoferlin underwent surgery in November to remove a brain tumour and was in hospital when Britain played Belgium in the Davis Cup final in Ghent.
He died on Friday morning, Belgian public broadcaster RTBF reported.
The LTA said on Twitter: " We are deeply saddened by the tragic news that Julien Hoferlin has passed away. Julien was a hugely popular friend of British Tennis and an inspirational coach to many players.
"Above all, a true gentlemen and joy to be around. He will be greatly missed by many. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."
After leaving the LTA, Hoferlin coached Maryna Zanevska and Steve Darcis and was a consultant to the Royal Belgian Tennis Federation.
Darcis, with whom Hoferlin was working when he was diagnosed, wrote on Twitter: "A coacha friendand much more. We will miss you juju."
Hoferlin captained the Belgium Davis Cup team between 2006 and 2008 and also coached leading Belgian players Dominique Monami and brothers Olivier and Christophe Rochus.
Source: PA
