Emma Raducanu says she plans to “tap into a few people” as she looks to rediscover her natural game while remaining open to appointing another full-time coach.
The British number one, ranked 24th in the world — her highest position since 2022 — parted ways with Francisco Roig after January’s Australian Open following a disagreement over playing style. Roig became the seventh full-time coach of her career, underlining the instability that has marked her post-US Open journey.
Speaking to BBC Sport after a two-hour practice session at Indian Wells, Raducanu said her focus is now on reconnecting with her instincts.
“Right now, it’s more about bringing my instincts back out, getting back in touch with myself,” she said. “I’ve had a lot of people telling me what to do and how to play, and it hasn’t necessarily fit.”
Raducanu believes parts of her natural game have been “coached out” of her and accepts that regaining that freedom will take time. While she has not ruled out hiring a permanent coach, she admits the scrutiny surrounding her appointments adds pressure.
“I don’t necessarily want to have one coach in the role because anyone I bring in is straight away going to be scrutinised,” she explained. “I might feel the pressure to stick with them, even if it’s not necessarily the right decision.”
Petchey Returns in Advisory Role
Mark Petchey is currently offering support in California. The former coach of Andy Murray has been on court regularly this week in what Raducanu describes as a day-to-day arrangement.
Petchey previously worked with Raducanu during her run to the Miami quarter-finals last spring and throughout parts of the clay season, including a fourth-round appearance in Rome. His presence has brought familiarity and, according to Raducanu, renewed enjoyment.
“I work really well when I’m with him,” she said. “I’m really happy to be on the court and just really enjoy it overall.”
Alexis Canter, who has limited coaching experience, continues to assist primarily as a hitting partner. He was alongside Raducanu during her semi-final run in Washington last summer and her recent final in Cluj.
Reset After Middle East Struggles
Raducanu arrives at Indian Wells refreshed after illness hampered her performances in Doha and Dubai, where she failed to win a match due to a chest infection. Now fully fit, she begins her campaign in the second round against qualifier Anastasia Zakharova following a first-round bye.
A full week of preparation in the Californian desert conditions has allowed her to adjust to the thin air and bright sun. Ultimately, Raducanu believes progress will depend less on who sits in her coaching box and more on how confidently she trusts her own game.
That means playing with the fearless intent of her teenage years — taking the ball early, striking hard into the corners and embracing the instincts that once carried her to Grand Slam glory.
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