AFTER four years, a breakthrough grand slam victory and annexing the world No 1 glory, Darren Cahill and Simona Halep have parted ways.

Citing family reasons, Cahill said he would take a year away from the grind as an elite coach on the international circuit.

“After much thought and discussion, and many years with 30 plus weeks on the road away from my family, I’ve decided to take a 12 month break,” Cahill said in a statement.

He said he wants “to be home more for support as our children enter important stages of their lives with the final year of high school, sports and college preparations all becoming more time consuming.”

“I’d like to thank Simona for the last 4 amazing years,” he said.

“Her understanding, personality, work ethic, generosity and professionalism made it a pleasure to stand by her side as her coach.

“She’s a young woman of total class and someone I respect greatly which is something more important than any result achieved.

“Basically, I had the dream job and I want to thank her for making it that way, and the opportunity to work with someone so talented and dedicated.

“I wish Simo and her team nothing but continued success and I look forward to supporting her from the sidelines next year.”

Cahill, 53, has built a fabulous coaching record since injuries prematurely ended the US Open semi-finalist’s playing career.

Lleyton Hewitt was the youngest man to secure the year-ending No 1 ranking and won the US Open under Cahill.

Andre Agassi, in 2003, was then the oldest man to climb to No 1 and won the Australian Open under Cahill.

And Halep completed a similar double this season with French Open victory and elevation to the top of the rankings.

The pair briefly split last season before a reunion led to spectacular progress.

Cahill will continue commentary duties with ESPN next year.