LONDON — Emma Raducanu has added former Rafael Nadal coach Francis Roig to her team on a trial basis until the end of the year, a move that comes after her previous coach, Dmitry Tursunov, parted ways with the US Open champion. Roig, a seasoned coach with over two decades of experience, was previously dismissed by world No. 36 Pedro Martínez, who made a concerning remark about their split earlier this season.
Raducanu, who has struggled with consistency and injuries since her historic 2021 US Open triumph, has cycled through multiple coaches in search of stability. Roig, known for his tactical expertise and work with Nadal during his clay-court dominance, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Raducanu’s game. However, his recent departure from Martínez’s camp raises questions about the dynamics of their new partnership.
Why Martínez Ended His Partnership with Roig
Pedro Martínez, the Spanish world No. 36, terminated his coaching relationship with Roig in May after just six months. Following the split, Martínez made a revealing comment, stating, "Sometimes, the chemistry just isn’t there, and it’s better to move on before things become toxic." The remark hinted at potential friction between the two, though Martínez did not elaborate further.
Sources close to Martínez’s camp suggested that the Spaniard felt Roig’s methods were too rigid and not tailored to his evolving game style. Martínez, who reached a career-high ranking of No. 40 in 2022, has since hired a new coach and shown improved form, including a recent quarterfinal run at the Estoril Open.
What Roig Brings to Raducanu’s Team
Roig’s hiring marks another attempt by Raducanu to find a long-term coaching solution. His credentials include:
- Over 20 years of coaching experience, including a key role in Nadal’s 22 Grand Slam titles
- A reputation for developing strong defensive skills and mental resilience
- Expertise in adapting game plans for different surfaces
Raducanu, currently ranked No. 168 after a series of injury setbacks, has openly discussed her need for a coach who can help her manage the physical and mental demands of the tour. "I need someone who understands my game and can guide me through the tough moments," she said in a recent interview.
The Challenge Ahead for Raducanu and Roig
The trial period with Roig will be crucial for both parties. Raducanu is set to compete in several tournaments before the year ends, including the WTA 500 event in Zhengzhou and potential wildcard entries into higher-tier events. Roig’s immediate tasks include:
- Strengthening Raducanu’s baseline consistency
- Reducing unforced errors, a recurring issue in her recent matches
- Rebuilding her confidence after multiple injury layoffs
Tennis analyst Mark Petchey weighed in on the partnership, telling Sky Sports, "Roig has the pedigree, but Emma needs a coach who can adapt to her unique journey. It’s not just about technique—it’s about trust."
Raducanu’s Coaching Carousel
Since her US Open win, Raducanu has worked with:
- Andrew Richardson (dismissed after the US Open)
- Torben Beltz (split in April 2022)
- Dmitry Tursunov (parted ways in October 2022)
- Sebastian Sachs (mutual separation in May 2023)
The frequent changes have drawn criticism from some quarters, with former British No. 1 Tim Henman stating, "Stability is key at this stage of her career. She needs to find the right fit and stick with it."
Conclusion: A Make-or-Break Trial
Roig’s appointment represents another gamble for Raducanu, whose career has been a mix of brilliance and turbulence. If the partnership succeeds, it could provide the foundation for her return to the top 50. If not, the search for the right coach will continue into 2024.
Raducanu remains optimistic, telling reporters, "I’m excited to work with Francis. His experience speaks for itself, and I believe we can achieve great things together." The tennis world will be watching closely to see if this latest collaboration can finally bring the stability she needs.