Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has made headlines again with her latest coaching change, parting ways with Mark Petchey and enlisting Francisco Roig, a long-time mentor of Rafael Nadal, as her new coach ahead of the 2025 US Open. Petchey, who worked with Raducanu on an informal basis since March 2025, spoke candidly about their amicable split, praising the 22-year-old’s growth while expressing confidence in Roig’s ability to elevate her game. The move, announced on August 4, 2025, marks Raducanu’s eighth coaching change in four years, sparking discussion about her quest for stability as she prepares for the Cincinnati Open and the US Open (web:0, web:11).
Petchey’s Reflections on the Split
Mark Petchey, a former coach of Andy Murray, described his time with Raducanu as “hugely enjoyable” but acknowledged his television commitments with Sky Sports prevented a full-time role. In a statement to BBC Sport on August 6, 2025, he said, “My only motivation was to act in Emma’s best interests. Stepping aside for a full-time coach like Francisco was the right move” (web:8). Under Petchey’s guidance, Raducanu enjoyed a resurgence, reaching the Citi Open semifinals, Queen’s Club quarterfinals, and the Miami Open last eight, climbing from No. 60 to No. 33 in the WTA rankings (web:2, web:16). Petchey emphasized their positive relationship, noting, “She’s developed so much, on and off the court. I’m proud of what we achieved” (@SkySportsTennis, post:2).
Enter Francisco Roig
Raducanu’s decision to hire Roig, who worked alongside Toni Nadal for all 22 of Rafael Nadal’s Grand Slam titles from 2005 to 2022, is a bold step. The 57-year-old Spaniard, known for his technical expertise, joined Raducanu for a trial post-Wimbledon and is contracted until the end of 2025 (web:6, web:22). Raducanu expressed excitement, telling Sky Sports, “He’s got a bank of experience. I’m very excited to have him on my side” (web:1). Roig’s approach, described as “blunt” and focused on improving shot quality, aligns with Raducanu’s factual mindset. After her 6-3, 6-2 win over Olga Danilovic in Cincinnati, she noted, “It’s just, ‘the level needs to be better.’ We understand each other” (web:15).
Challenges and Criticism
Raducanu’s frequent coaching changes—seven since her 2021 US Open triumph—have drawn scrutiny. Her brief 14-day stint with Vlado Platenik in March 2025, ending after one match, was particularly controversial, with Platenik’s “coaching suicide” remark cited as a factor (web:20, web:24). Matteo Berrettini, who parted ways with Roig in 2024 after less than a year, warned that he and Roig “saw things differently,” raising concerns for Raducanu (web:7, web:21). However, her progress under Petchey, including a competitive 6-7(3), 6-4, 6-7(5) loss to Aryna Sabalenka in Cincinnati, shows promise (web:17).
Looking Ahead
As Raducanu prepares for the US Open, where she aims to reclaim her 2021 glory, Roig’s expertise could address technical kinks in her serve and forehand (web:0). Her journey mirrors the resilience of athletes like Coco Gauff, tackling serve issues, or Luke Littler, navigating darts criticism. Fans on X are optimistic, with one post stating, “Emma with Roig is a game-changer. US Open, here she comes!” (@TennisFanUK, August 7, 2025) (post:0). With Roig’s guidance, Raducanu’s latest chapter could mark a turning point in her quest for consistency and Grand Slam success.
