Emma Raducanu has come under fire for previously surrounding herself with “yes men,” according to former world No. 9 CoCo Vandeweghe. The British star is now working informally with coach Mark Petchey as she looks to stabilize her team after Nick Cavaday stepped away in January due to health concerns.
Petchey, who briefly worked with Raducanu ahead of her breakout 2021 summer, has recently rejoined her camp and is expected to accompany her to the upcoming Italian Open. The duo found immediate success at the Miami Open last month, where Raducanu reached her first WTA 1000 quarter-final.
Vandeweghe, who works alongside Petchey at Tennis Channel, believes his experience and strong character make him an ideal fit for Raducanu. “They’re comfortable together,” she said. “Emma has sought that in past coaches, but I think she’s finally found someone who isn’t just a ‘yes man’.”
She added that Petchey’s understanding of the pressures tied to being a British No. 1—having previously coached Andy Murray—gives him an edge in managing the demands of top-level tennis. “Petch is smart, experienced, and can handle the emotions and expectations. He stands firm, which may not have been the case with her previous coaches.”
Although the partnership remains unofficial, Raducanu appears eager to bring Petchey on board full-time, pending his broadcasting commitments.
