Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has decided to take her time in selecting a new long-term coach following her split with Francisco Roig earlier this year. Roig, who had previously worked with Rafael Nadal for 18 years, became the ninth coach and seventh full-time official coach to part ways with Raducanu during her career due to differing opinions on her playing style.
Raducanu has since been working with her hitting partner Alexis Canter and is content with the current coaching arrangement as she prepares for the upcoming Indian Wells tournament in California, where she will face Anastasia Zakharova in the first round.
Although Raducanu continues to collaborate with Mark Petchey on a day-to-day basis, Petchey’s broadcasting commitments prevent him from being available full-time. Raducanu expressed her desire to reconnect with her natural playing style and instincts, emphasizing the importance of finding the right coach who aligns with her approach without feeling pressured to conform.
The young tennis star praised Petchey’s impact on her game, highlighting their positive working relationship during Wimbledon last summer. Raducanu emphasized the need for a coach who respects her playing style and allows her to make decisions collaboratively. She remains open to exploring coaching options while valuing the freedom to stay true to her instincts on the court.