Emma Raducanu isn’t just tweaking her backhand or adjusting her serve. She’s making the kind of coaching move that could reshape her entire approach to the game. The 2021 US Open champion has brought in Francisco Roig, Rafael Nadal’s former coach of nearly two decades, in a partnership that could be the key to unlocking her next level.
Why Did Emma Raducanu Turn to Rafael Nadal’s Longtime Coach?
The decision represents more than just another coaching change for Raducanu. This marks her eighth different coaching arrangement since her breakthrough victory in New York, but this time feels different. After working with Nick Cavaday, Andrew Richardson, and Nigel Sears, among others, she’s now adding someone with unmatched Grand Slam experience to her corner.
Following a period of working solo earlier in the 2024-25 season, she had reunited on a part-time basis with former coach Mark Petchey. Now, she’s adding Roig’s expertise through the end of 2025, creating what could be her most formidable coaching setup yet.
Emma and her new coach Francisco Roig
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— Raducanu News (@RaducanuNews) August 7, 2025
The chemistry between the 22-year-old and Roig was apparent from their first meeting. Their initial trial sessions just after Wimbledon left Raducanu convinced she’d found the right fit. “First impressions are it’s going really well,” she told The Guardian. “We did a few days after Wimbledon together and I was really happy with how it went. I’m just so excited to have him on board, so much experience. I’m really looking forward to continuing.”
What Can Francisco Roig Bring to Raducanu’s Game?
Roig’s resume speaks for itself. The 57-year-old Spaniard spent 17 years as Nadal’s backup coach from 2005 to 2022, helping the legendary lefty capture all 22 of his Major titles while working alongside Toni Nadal. That’s nearly two decades of Grand Slam preparation, match strategy, and pressure-cooker moments at the highest level of professional tennis.
After parting ways with Nadal, Roig coached former Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini from 2023 to 2024, gaining recent experience with power-baseline tennis that could translate well to Raducanu’s aggressive style.
For Raducanu, the appeal goes beyond Roig’s championship pedigree. She’s identified a specific area where his expertise could prove invaluable. “I see that when I play the really top players where I can’t run and scrap, wait on them to miss. I think that’s where I need to improve,” she explained. “And yeah, I’m hoping he can help me with that.”
MORE: Emma Raducanu Hires Rafael Nadal’s Former Coach – Everything To Know
How Will This Partnership Impact Raducanu’s US Open Preparation?
The timing couldn’t be more perfect for Raducanu’s championship ambitions. With the US Open approaching, she’s bringing in a coach who understands exactly what it takes to peak for Major tournaments. Roig’s experience managing the pressure and preparation for Grand Slam events could be exactly what Raducanu needs for a deep run in New York.
Their partnership officially began in Cincinnati, where Raducanu entered as the 30th seed. She received a first-round bye and will face Olga Danilović in the second round, marking their first meeting on the WTA Tour. The winner will advance to meet either top seed Aryna Sabalenka or Markéta Vondroušová in the third round.
This Cincinnati tournament serves as the perfect testing ground for the new coaching arrangement. With just weeks before the US Open, Raducanu and Roig can fine-tune their approach against quality competition while building the communication and trust that will be crucial during the high-stakes moments of a Grand Slam.
