Four-time Grand Slam champion Kim Clijsters has expressed concern about Emma Raducanu’s ongoing search for her 10th coach, following the British player’s split with Francisco Roig after the Australian Open. Raducanu’s early exit in Melbourne led to another coaching departure in a career marked by numerous changes.
The 23-year-old Raducanu has had a series of coaching arrangements, beginning with Nigel Sears at her maiden Wimbledon appearance before achieving US Open success with Andrew Richardson. Since then, she has worked alongside several coaches including Torben Beltz, Dmitry Tursunov, Sebastian Sachs, Nick Cavaday, Vladimir Platenik, Mark Petchey, and most recently Roig.
Who Is Guiding Raducanu’s Coaching Decisions?
Clijsters questioned who is truly behind the rapid coaching shifts in Raducanu’s camp, wondering if it is the player herself, her father, or her agent making these moves. The Belgian, now 42, suggested that such frequent changes could indicate a deeper uncertainty in the decision-making process.
“When I hear those kinds of things, I am curious to know who makes those decisions. Is it her? Her agent? Her father? There are many things that intrigue me in that situation. Who makes these decisions for her? Who makes her panic so quickly?” – Kim Clijsters, four-time Grand Slam winner
She emphasized that coaching relationships need time to develop, noting that the coaches Raducanu has partnered with in the past have been experienced and patient with player development.
“Because she has had very good coaches she has worked with in the past, coaches who take their time and understand that developing and adjusting technique and tactical gameplay takes time. Working on that takes time.” – Kim Clijsters
The Importance of Stability in Coaching for Player Development
Clijsters believes Raducanu should focus on building a long-lasting connection with a coach to maximize her growth. The former world No.1 advised that a balanced approach—trusting a coaching partnership over time—could help Raducanu reach her full potential.
“I think it would be good for her to learn to strive and find someone she really connects with, and then work hard to build a longer-lasting coaching relationship and have that long-term approach in mind, or for whoever makes that decision to have it,” – Kim Clijsters
She added that the benefits a coach can provide become evident only after sufficient time is given to adapt and trust the process.
“It takes time for a coach to do their job, right? And it’s about finding the balance between giving time to trust the coach and giving time for the effects a coach can have.” – Kim Clijsters
Emma Raducanu’s Tribute to Former Coach Francisco Roig
Following her split with Roig, Raducanu expressed gratitude for their time working together, highlighting the positive relationship they shared off the court as well as on it. The world No.30 acknowledged Roig as more than just a coach during their partnership.
“Francis, Thank you for our time together,” she said. “You have been more than a coach to me and I will cherish the many good times we spent together on and off the court.”
“While we have come to the conclusion together that we ought not to move forward, please know that I am very grateful for all you have taught me and fond of our time shared.” – Emma Raducanu
