Emma Raducanu has confirmed her immediate coaching plans, stating she will work with Francisco Roig, Rafael Nadal’s former mentor, “through to the end of the year” despite her recent exit from the US Open. This update follows a period of positive results for Raducanu since partnering with Roig, indicating a desire for continuity as she aims to climb the rankings.
Francisco Roig: The Ex-Rafa Nadal Mentor
Francisco Roig, an experienced Spanish coach, joined Raducanu’s team on a full-time basis ahead of the US Open. Roig previously worked alongside Nadal’s uncle Toni for the majority of Nadal’s illustrious career, contributing to all 22 of his Grand Slam victories between 2005 and 2022. More recently, he was part of Matteo Berrettini’s coaching staff until October 2024.
Raducanu’s decision to bring Roig on board came after her informal arrangement with British coach Mark Petchey concluded due to his broadcasting commitments. Petchey, who had been working with Raducanu since March, had helped her achieve a positive run of results, including a WTA 1000 quarter-final in Miami, a last-16 run at the Italian Open, and a quarter-final at Queen’s Club. He expressed happiness for Raducanu, calling the partnership with Roig a “golden opportunity.”
A Trial Period and Contract Agreement
Discussions between Raducanu and Roig reportedly began during the grass-court season, followed by a successful trial period after Wimbledon. Roig officially began working with Raducanu at the Cincinnati Open. The agreement sees him coaching the British No. 1 until at least the end of the 2025 season.
Positive Steps and Future Outlook
Despite her third-round exit at the US Open to Elena Rybakina, Raducanu views her initial weeks with Roig as “pretty successful,” highlighting “good improvements” in her game. She acknowledged that while her weaknesses were highlighted in the loss, three weeks is not enough time for “miracles,” but expressed confidence in the ongoing work.
Under Roig’s guidance, Raducanu has been working on diversifying her game, including developing her backhand slice. She also revealed that her new coach is providing her with other surprising lessons, such as Spanish, football, and golf, contributing to a relaxed and positive environment.
Raducanu aims to “narrow that gap” against top players, having faced strong opponents like Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and Elena Rybakina in Grand Slams this season. She believes Roig could be “the missing link” to consistently challenge and beat top-10 players. This partnership brings a sense of stability to Raducanu’s coaching setup, which has seen numerous changes since her 2021 US Open triumph.
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