LONDON — British tennis star Emma Raducanu has opened up about her current coaching situation, describing it as "working well" but acknowledging that she will soon need to "figure another solution out." The 2021 US Open champion, who has faced scrutiny over her frequent coaching changes, remains optimistic about her progress while recognizing the need for stability.
Raducanu's Coaching Journey
Since her historic US Open triumph as a qualifier, Raducanu has worked with multiple coaches, including Andrew Richardson, Torben Beltz, Dmitry Tursunov, and Sebastian Sachs. Her latest arrangement involves a temporary setup with Nick Cavaday, a childhood coach who previously worked with her at the Bromley Tennis Centre. Raducanu emphasized the benefits of familiarity, stating, "Nick knows my game inside out, and right now, that’s what I need—someone who understands my strengths and how to refine them."
The Current Setup: Pros and Cons
Raducanu’s current coaching structure is a mix of short-term solutions and self-reliance. While she appreciates Cavaday’s insights, she admits the arrangement is not permanent. "It’s working well for now, but I know I’ll need something more structured soon," she said after her recent match at the Stuttgart Open. The 21-year-old has been praised for her adaptability, but critics argue that her frequent changes hinder long-term development.
Key aspects of her current setup include:
- Personalized training tailored to her aggressive baseline game
- Flexibility in scheduling, allowing her to manage injuries
- A focus on rebuilding confidence after a series of setbacks
The Injury Factor
Raducanu’s career has been hampered by injuries, including wrist surgeries in 2023 that sidelined her for eight months. Her coaching choices have often been influenced by her physical condition. "I’ve had to prioritize recovery, which means my team needs to adapt constantly," she explained. Some analysts suggest that a long-term coach could help her manage workload and prevent recurring issues.
The Search for Stability
Raducanu’s team has reportedly explored options with high-profile coaches, including Patrick Mouratoglou and Darren Cahill. However, no formal agreements have been reached. "It’s about finding the right fit, not just a big name," she stressed. The challenge lies in balancing technical guidance with personal chemistry—a lesson she learned after parting ways with Tursunov due to "conflicting approaches."
Former British No. 1 Tim Henman weighed in, saying, "Emma’s talent is undeniable, but consistency in coaching is crucial. The best players—Federer, Nadal, Djokovic—had long-term partnerships that shaped their careers. She needs that foundation." Raducanu acknowledges this but remains pragmatic: "I’m still figuring out what works. It’s a process."
Looking Ahead
With the grass-court season approaching, Raducanu faces pressure to perform at Wimbledon, where she burst onto the scene in 2021. Her coaching situation will be under scrutiny, especially if results fluctuate. "I’m confident in my team right now, but I’m also realistic—this isn’t the final piece of the puzzle," she admitted. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if she can find the stability needed to return to the top.
In the meantime, Raducanu remains focused on incremental progress. "Every match, every practice session is a step forward. The jigsaw isn’t complete, but the pieces are coming together." Whether her current setup evolves into a permanent solution or another change is on the horizon, one thing is clear: Raducanu’s journey is far from over.
As she prepares for the French Open, where she’ll compete as a wildcard, Raducanu’s resilience will be tested. Her ability to adapt—both on and off the court—could define the next chapter of her career. For now, she’s taking it one tournament at a time.
The tennis world remains divided on her approach. Some argue her independence is refreshing, while others believe she needs a steady hand. Only time will tell if Raducanu’s gamble on short-term solutions pays off or if she’ll eventually settle into a long-term partnership.
For now, Raducanu’s message is clear: "I’m trusting the process. The right people will come at the right time. Until then, I’ll keep working with what I have—and what I have right now is working."