Coco Gauff’s ex-coach makes feelings known on Emma Raducanu’s latest coaching change ahead of Cincinnati Open
Brad Gilbert, Coco Gauff’s former coach from July 2023 to September 2024, expressed cautious hope regarding Emma Raducanu’s latest coaching appointment, Francisco Roig, ahead of the 2025 Cincinnati Open (August 7-18). In a post on X on August 5, 2025, Gilbert commented on Raducanu’s decision to hire Roig, a long-time ally of Rafael Nadal, stating, “Really interesting choice by Emma Raducanu with Francisco Roig, tons of experience, hopefully it lasts.” The remark, reported by Tennis.com, reflects both optimism about Roig’s credentials and an implicit acknowledgment of Raducanu’s history of frequent coaching changes, having worked with eight coaches since her 2021 US Open triumph.
Gilbert’s comment carries weight given his own success with Gauff, guiding her to the 2023 Cincinnati Open and US Open titles during their 14-month partnership. Roig, who coached Nadal from 2005 to 2022 and contributed to all 22 of his Grand Slam titles, brings a wealth of technical expertise, praised by Feliciano Lopez as “the best in the world” for his ability to spot and correct subtle flaws, per Telegraph Sport. Raducanu, now world No. 38, has shown flashes of brilliance in 2025, with a Citi Open semifinal and wins over top-10 players Jessica Pegula and Maria Sakkari, but her 6-2, 6-1 loss to Amanda Anisimova in Montreal highlighted ongoing consistency issues.
Gilbert’s “hopefully it lasts” quip nods to Raducanu’s pattern of short-lived coaching stints, including Nigel Sears, Andrew Richardson, and a 14-day tenure with Vladimir Platenik. Her recent trial with Mark Petchey was productive but ended due to his media commitments, leading to Roig’s appointment. The Guardian notes Roig’s technical focus could refine Raducanu’s serve and forehand, critical for her tough Cincinnati draw, starting with a second-round match against Olga Danilović or Katie Boulter, and a potential third-round clash with Aryna Sabalenka. Gilbert’s cautious endorsement suggests belief in Roig’s ability to elevate Raducanu, provided she commits to the partnership as she aims for a US Open seeding.
