Emma Raducanu may be preparing for a new chapter in her career with reports suggesting that she’s in talks with a potential new coach—former player and experienced commentator Mark Petchey.
The 22-year-old British star is reportedly considering Petchey for a more permanent coaching role after his successful stint assisting her during the Miami Open last month. But who exactly is Mark Petchey, and what could he bring to Raducanu’s evolving game?
🎾 From Player to Coach: Petchey’s Tennis Journey
Before becoming a respected voice in tennis broadcasting, Mark Petchey had a solid professional career. Turning pro in 1988, the Brit achieved a career-high ATP ranking of World No. 80 in August 1994 and won three Challenger singles titles.
He made a notable run to the third round at Wimbledon in 1997, defeating Jan Kroslak and Tommy Haas before falling to three-time champion Boris Becker. Petchey also reached the second round of the 1994 US Open and competed in the 1995 Australian Open.
In doubles, he captured one ATP Tour title at the 1996 Nottingham Open, partnering with Danny Sapsford, before retiring in 1998.
🧠 Coaching Highlights
Petchey is best known in coaching circles for his early work with Andy Murray. Under his guidance, Murray broke into the ATP top 50, won his first ATP title in San Jose (2006), and reached the third round at Wimbledon in 2005—all during his teenage years.
His coaching résumé also includes working with:
- Silvija Talaja, whom he helped reach the WTA top 20
- Tina Pisnik, who climbed into the top 30
- Maria Sakkari, during her rise on the WTA Tour
- Emma Raducanu, in a previous spell during the summer of 2020 amid the COVID hiatus
Petchey recently returned to Raducanu’s corner at the 2025 Miami Open, where she enjoyed her best run in a while—reaching her first WTA 1000 quarter-final and re-entering the top 50 rankings.
🎙️ Broadcasting Career
Outside of coaching, Petchey has carved out an impressive media career. He has served as a lead commentator for:
- BBC during Wimbledon
- ITV during its French Open coverage
- Amazon Prime and Sky Sports in the UK
- Tennis Channel, where he is currently one of their primary voices
His ongoing role at Tennis Channel is reportedly a key factor in discussions with Raducanu, as it remains unclear whether he could balance both broadcasting and coaching commitments.
📰 What’s Next for Raducanu?
While nothing is confirmed yet, the potential partnership with Petchey signals a strategic move for Raducanu as she looks to regain momentum in her career. Given their history and his deep tennis knowledge, he could prove a steadying influence as she targets a strong clay-court season and a seeded spot at Wimbledon!
