Emma Raducanu Makes Coaching Change Ahead of Wimbledon
Emma Raducanu is set to team up with Mark Petchey as she prepares for her 2025 Wimbledon campaign. The former US Open champion secured approval from the Tennis Channel, where Petchey works as a commentator, allowing him to step into a coaching role.
A Year of Coaching Changes
Raducanu started the year under the guidance of Nick Cavaday, who had played a key role in revitalizing her career throughout 2024. However, Cavaday was forced to step down due to health issues, leaving Raducanu to explore other coaching options.
Following his departure, she worked with Slovakian coach Vlado Platenik on a trial basis. Platenik was present in her camp at Indian Wells but was noticeably absent from the Miami Open, where Raducanu impressively reached the quarter-finals without a coach.
Petchey Joins the Team
Petchey, a former professional player who previously coached Andy Murray, was seen alongside Raducanu in Miami, though not in an official capacity. With his broadcasting commitments cleared, he will now play an integral role in her preparations for both the French Open and Wimbledon.
Mirror Sport understands that the Tennis Channel has given Petchey the green light to take on the coaching role, allowing Raducanu to build on her strong Miami Open performance.
Raducanu Reflects on Miami Run
Despite her quarter-final exit at the hands of Jessica Pegula, Raducanu remained optimistic about her progress.
“Despite losing today, I can take some good positives from this week and look forward,” she said. “I just need to take a beat, reevaluate what I’m doing, and then I’ll make a plan from there.”
She also emphasized the importance of having familiar faces around during tournaments, with her longtime mentor Jane O’Donoghue supporting her in Miami.
Platenik’s Perspective on Their Split
Speaking about his short-lived partnership with Raducanu, Platenik admitted he was “surprised” by the decision to part ways.
“It’s not easy starting in the middle of the season with pressure on Emma, but it was her decision,” he told The Times. “I think it’s just too much pressure on her. Maybe my presence even created more pressure.”
With Petchey now on board, Raducanu will be aiming to find stability as she gears up for a crucial stretch of the season.
