New York has seen many stories of sporting triumphs and heartbreaks, but this year, the narrative isn’t just about matches—it’s about a partnership.
Emma Raducanu, Britain’s rising tennis star, is stepping into a new chapter with Spanish coach Francis Roig. And from all signs, this collaboration could mark a turning point in her career.
Trust at the Heart of the Partnership
When Raducanu talks about Roig, one word keeps coming up: trust.
For a 22-year-old who has faced professional setbacks and personal betrayals since her fairy-tale US Open win four years ago, trust doesn’t come easily.
Raducanu’s past coaches—Nick Cavaday, Jane O’Donoghue, Mark Petchey—were all familiar faces.
But to grow, she had to take a leap and invite someone new into her inner circle. Roig, with his 18-year history alongside Rafael Nadal, has earned that trust.
“She keeps his work with Rafa very private, which I respect,” Raducanu explains.
“I like that he doesn’t divulge or share too much information because then I trust that he wouldn’t do the same with me.”
In other words, she knows Roig won’t turn into a Vlado Platenik—a previous short-term coach who leaked details about her sessions to the media within days.
A Coach Known for Discretion and Insight
Feliciano Lopez, who was coached by Roig for six years at the start of his career, praises the Spaniard for his integrity.
“Francis is not that kind of person. They are going to be working in a circle of trust,” he says.
Jordi Vilaro, Roig’s long-time friend and co-founder of Spain’s BTT Academy, echoes that sentiment.
“He’s happy with Emma. She’s talented, hardworking, and loves being on the practice court. It’s a strong combination.
She’s very smart and is catching on quickly to his methods.”
A Unique Approach to Tennis
Roig’s coaching philosophy is unconventional. Rather than obsess over biomechanics or textbook positions, he emphasizes timing and fluidity.
“The traditional way is to be in the right place before hitting the ball,” says Vilaro. “Francis believes you should arrive on time—not before.
It’s about playing dynamically and using your whole body. He sees things other coaches cannot.”
Raducanu is already responding. She spends extra hours on the practice court, focusing on her slice backhand and taking on challenges like trying to beat Roig in cross-court exchanges.
Lighthearted Energy and Team Fun
One thing that stands out in this partnership is the positivity Roig brings. Raducanu laughs and jokes on court, feeding off his energy.
Pre-match routines aren’t just about tennis—they’re about bonding.
In Miami, Petchey introduced spikeball; in New York, it’s football.
After a warm-up kick that left everyone impressed, Raducanu headed onto the court feeling confident.
Roig’s enthusiasm off court also extends to dinners and social connections.
After her win over Janice Tjen, Raducanu and her team celebrated at Benjamin’s, one of New York’s top steakhouses.
Vilaro explains the Spanish approach to coaching: “We build relationships like family, not just business.
We feel the matches as if it’s our daughter or son playing. It’s special.”
Learning Beyond Tennis
Raducanu isn’t just learning tennis from Roig—she’s also picking up Spanish and trying her hand at golf, following in mixed doubles partner Carlos Alcaraz’s footsteps.
“In the car rides, Francis teaches me a few words in Spanish.
Hopefully, I can add to that and maybe even hear some on-court coaching in Spanish,” she says.
Golf is more experimental. “I don’t play, but I’ll go swing and see how I am,” she admits with a grin.
Eyeing the Next Big Challenge
Looking ahead to her third-round match against world No. 9 Elena Rybakina, Raducanu remains realistic but hopeful.
She hasn’t beaten the top tier consistently yet, losing all 11 previous encounters with her generation’s leading players.
“Francis can really help me get to that level,” Raducanu says.
“We’ve only had a few weeks together, so it might not happen immediately, but over time, I believe we’ll get there.”
Raducanu’s New York story isn’t just about results; it’s about trust, growth, and a partnership that feels more like family than business.
And for the British star, that might be the key to unlocking her next breakthrough.
