Nick Kyrgios, the outspoken Australian tennis star, has weighed in on Emma Raducanu’s frequent coaching changes, labeling coaching “overrated” in a *talkSPORT* interview on June 25, 2025. His comments, shared via @TennisWorldUSA on X, come as Raducanu, the British No. 1 and World No. 38, navigates her latest coaching shift with Mark Petchey ahead of Wimbledon, starting June 30, 2025. Kyrgios’ remarks follow Raducanu’s emotional 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-1 win over Ann Li at the 2025 Eastbourne Open, where she burst into tears, citing personal distress and a lingering back injury.
Raducanu’s coaching journey has been turbulent since her 2021 US Open triumph at 18. She has worked with five coaches in two years, including Nigel Sears, Andrew Richardson, and Jane O’Donoghue, drawing criticism for her instability. Kyrgios, who has thrived without a traditional coach, defended her, saying, “It’s so hard in this day and age. She won a Grand Slam at 19, and the responsibility is massive. Coaching is overrated—trust your game, keep it simple.” He pointed to his own success, reaching the 2022 Wimbledon final with minimal coaching, as evidence players can rely on instinct. “Emma’s got the talent; she doesn’t need someone overcomplicating things,” he added, per *Sportskeeda*.
Raducanu’s latest move saw her reunite with Petchey, a former British player and Andy Murray’s coach, after parting with Nick Cavaday in May 2025 following a Queen’s Club quarterfinal run. Her Eastbourne performance, supported by Petchey and Billie Jean King Cup teammate Fran Jones, showcased resilience despite a back injury that forced her Berlin Open withdrawal. “I’m doing everything—needles, muscle stimulation—to manage it,” Raducanu told BBC Sport on June 24, 2025, expressing cautious optimism about her fitness.
Kyrgios, sidelined from Wimbledon due to wrist and ankle injuries, has consistently championed Raducanu, notably praising her 2025 Miami Open run and criticizing detractors in 2022. His “overrated” comment sparked mixed reactions on X, with @TennisFanatic agreeing, “She’s better off trusting her instincts,” while @RaduFan4Life countered, “Coaching gives structure—she needs consistency.” Raducanu’s frequent changes, including brief stints with Dmitry Tursunov and Sebastian Sachs, reflect her search for the right fit, a challenge Kyrgios believes she can overcome by relying on her natural game.
As Raducanu faces Maya Joint in Eastbourne’s second round, aiming to build momentum for Wimbledon, where she’s a wildcard, Kyrgios’ advice underscores her need to balance independence with guidance. Her emotional resilience and Petchey’s steady presence could be key to a deep SW19 run.
