**Emma Raducanu Hires New Coach Francisco Roig: A Strategic Move in Tennis**
Emma Raducanu, the remarkable British tennis player, has recently made headlines by appointing Francisco Roig as her new coach. Following her breakthrough moment as a teenage qualifier by winning the US Open in 2021, Raducanu has navigated a tumultuous coaching journey, frequently changing coaches. Roig, a seasoned coach known for his successful tenure with tennis great Rafael Nadal, now aims to reinforce Raducanu’s skills as she seeks to conquer new heights in her career.
### A Long-Term Commitment to Growth
Raducanu, currently ranked 35th in the world, has set her sights on continued improvement as she heads into the upcoming US Open, marking her second tournament with Roig. His reputation as a reliable strategist who addresses players’ areas for improvement has led many, including former Spanish No. 2 Feliciano Lopez, to praise Roig’s coaching ability. Lopez described Roig as patient yet demanding, noting that he pushes his players until they master any aspect of their game that requires attention.
### The Technically Astute Roig
Roig, 57 years old, has garnered a reputation for his extraordinary technical insight into the game. After parting ways with Lopez, he joined Nadal’s team in 2005, significantly contributing to Nadal’s ascent in the tennis world and his impressive tally of 22 Grand Slam titles. Upon leaving Nadal’s camp in 2022, Nadal himself acknowledged Roig’s pivotal role in furthering his game. Toni Nadal, Rafael’s uncle and longtime coach, also affirmed Roig’s capability to elevate Raducanu’s skills, emphasizing the importance of foundational techniques in an era where players often prioritize power.
### Working Through Injury and Building Resilience
Raducanu faced a challenging season in 2023, struggling with wrist and ankle injuries that sidelined her for significant portions of the year. Nevertheless, under the informal guidance of Mark Petchey, she managed to reestablish her foothold in the sport, reaching semi-finals and quarter-finals in various tournaments. The upcoming collaboration with Roig is seen as crucial for enhancing her performance as she aims to return to top form. Raducanu noted, “I can definitely improve on the quality of a lot of my shots,” recognizing the potential for Roig to augment her overall game quality.
### A Positive Start and Coaching Philosophy
During their initial partnership at the Cincinnati Open, Raducanu and Roig made notable strides. The duo engaged in intense training sessions, illustrating Raducanu’s dedication to honing her skills and Roig’s engaging coaching style. Close friend Jordi Vilaro highlighted Roig’s unique ability to identify technical issues swiftly—skills he honed from years of experience without relying solely on video analysis.
Raducanu also expressed satisfaction with Roig’s stimulating training sessions that provoked her curiosity and challenged her abilities. Her impressive performance against world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, despite the loss, showcased the potential of this new partnership.
### Looking Ahead: Stability and Future Growth
Historically, Raducanu’s coaching carousel raised questions about her stability and commitment to a cohesive training environment. However, with Roig, the focus is on building a strong relationship that fosters long-term progress. Toni Nadal remarked on Roig’s amiable character and ability to create a comfortable coaching atmosphere.
As Raducanu prepares for the demands of elite tennis, developing a robust rapport with Roig will be critical for sustained success. The upcoming US Open presents an opportunity for her to further demonstrate the impact of this new coaching dynamic. Their shared smiles during practice, such as during a mixed doubles session alongside fellow competitors, indicate a promising partnership built on mutual respect and enthusiasm.
In conclusion, Emma Raducanu’s decision to collaborate with Francisco Roig signifies a strategic step towards enhancing her tennis prowess. With Roig’s expert guidance, Raducanu aspires to improve her game significantly and navigate the challenges of professional tennis whilst building a stable environment for her growth. The landscape of women’s tennis will be eagerly observing how this partnership unfolds in the coming tournaments.
