LONDON — Emma Raducanu has revealed the secret behind her recent resurgence on the court, crediting a refined serve and her new partnership with coach Mark Petchey after reaching the quarter-finals of the Nottingham Open. The 2021 US Open champion showcased a dominant performance, dropping just five games across two matches, and attributed her success to tactical adjustments under Petchey’s guidance.
A Revamped Serve: Raducanu’s New Weapon
Raducanu, who has struggled with consistency since her historic Grand Slam triumph, has been working closely with Petchey to refine her serve. The 21-year-old Brit explained that subtle technical changes have made a significant difference in her game. "We’ve been focusing on my ball toss and my stance—small tweaks that have helped me generate more power and accuracy," she said in her post-match press conference.
The improvements were evident in her straight-sets victory over Daria Snigur, where she fired six aces and won 82% of her first-serve points. Analysts noted her ability to place serves wide and down the T with greater precision, a stark contrast to her previous struggles with double faults. "It’s about rhythm and trust," Raducanu added. "Mark has helped me simplify my motion, and it’s paying off."
The Petchey Effect: A Winning Partnership
Mark Petchey, a former British No. 1 and seasoned coach, joined Raducanu’s team earlier this year after she parted ways with Sebastian Sachs. The collaboration has already yielded promising results, with Raducanu displaying renewed confidence in her game. Petchey’s emphasis on tactical discipline and mental resilience appears to be a perfect fit for the young star.
Raducanu praised Petchey’s approach, saying, "He’s very analytical but also keeps things light. We’ve worked a lot on my court positioning and shot selection, especially on second serves. He’s helped me stay calm under pressure, which was a big issue for me last season."
Key Adjustments Under Petchey:
- Serve mechanics: Simplified motion for better consistency
- Court positioning: More aggressive stance on returns
- Mental focus: Breathing techniques to manage pressure
A Promising Comeback Trail
Raducanu’s run in Nottingham marks her first WTA quarter-final since 2022, signaling a potential return to form after a series of injuries and coaching changes. Fans and pundits alike have taken notice of her improved movement and shot-making, with former British No. 1 Tim Henman calling her performance "the most convincing we’ve seen from Emma in years."
The tournament also serves as a crucial warm-up for Wimbledon, where Raducanu will aim to replicate her 2021 US Open magic. "I’m taking it one match at a time, but I feel like I’m building momentum," she said. "The goal is to stay healthy and keep improving."
Looking Ahead: Wimbledon and Beyond
With Wimbledon just weeks away, Raducanu’s resurgence couldn’t come at a better time. The British crowd will be eager to see if she can carry her Nottingham form into the grass-court Grand Slam. Petchey, who has previously coached Andy Murray and Ana Ivanovic, believes Raducanu has the tools to compete at the highest level again.
"Emma’s talent is undeniable," Petchey told the BBC. "It’s about putting the pieces together and staying patient. She’s doing the work, and the results will follow."
Raducanu’s next test in Nottingham will be against top seed Ons Jabeur, a match that could further prove her progress. A win would not only boost her ranking but also solidify her status as a contender heading into Wimbledon.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Raducanu
Emma Raducanu’s partnership with Mark Petchey and her refined serve have reignited her career at a pivotal moment. While challenges remain, her recent performances suggest she’s rediscovering the form that made her a global sensation. As she put it herself: "I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m on the right path."
For British tennis fans, Raducanu’s resurgence is a welcome sight. If she continues to build on this momentum, the 21-year-old could once again become a force to reckon with on the WTA tour.