Emma Raducanu’s informal coaching arrangement with Mark Petchey has polarized tennis fans, with the 22-year-old British star’s setup drawing both support and skepticism as she competes at the 2025 Italian Open. Petchey, a former coach of Andy Murray and a Tennis Channel commentator, rejoined Raducanu’s team at the Miami Open in March, leading to her first WTA 1000 quarter-final. Their partnership, described as “informal” due to Petchey’s broadcasting commitments, has been praised for its positive impact but criticized for its lack of long-term stability, especially after former British No. 1 Dan Evans voiced concerns.
Raducanu has expressed satisfaction with the arrangement, telling Sky Sports, “It’s working pretty well. Mark is helping as much as he can around his commentary work.” She credits Petchey’s non-technical approach, focusing on aggression and repetition, for her recent progress, including a 7-5, 6-7(1), 6-3 first-round win over Maya Joint and a 6-2, 6-2 second-round victory over Jil Teichmann in Rome. A GB News poll revealed 89% of fans want Petchey to stay, citing his familiarity and trust, as Raducanu noted, “I feel comfortable with him.” CoCo Vandeweghe echoed this, telling Motociclismo that their rapport drives results.[]
However, Evans warned on BBC 5 Live, “It can’t last if she starts losing matches and Petchey’s in the commentary box,” predicting Raducanu may seek a new coach if losses mount during the grass or US hard-court swings. Critics argue the part-time setup, with Jane O’Donoghue temporarily filling gaps, lacks the consistency needed for a top player. O’Donoghue’s return to her finance job soon will force another solution, as Raducanu admitted, “I need to figure that out.” Posts on X, like @DExpress_Sport, highlight the divide, with some fans calling the arrangement unsustainable.
Petchey’s prior defense of Raducanu, labeling her “misunderstood” and criticizing “toxic” fan scrutiny, adds context to his role as a supportive figure. Yet, his limited availability remains a sticking point. Raducanu’s third-round match against Veronika Kudermetova in Rome tests her progress, but the debate over her coaching setup underscores broader questions about her path back to the elite
