Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open champion, has been navigating the complexities of professional tennis with a renewed sense of purpose and precision. Her recent performances, particularly at the Madrid Open, signal a significant transformation, largely attributed to the influence of her coach, Mark Petchey. This partnership, which began informally at the Miami Open in March 2025, has already yielded impressive results, with colleagues and analysts noting a marked improvement in Raducanu’s game.
Raducanu’s journey since her fairy-tale US Open triumph has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Frequent coaching changes and injury setbacks have tested her resilience, but her latest collaboration with Petchey, a former coach of Andy Murray, seems to have struck a chord. Their connection dates back to 2020, when Petchey worked with a teenage Raducanu during the pandemic. This prior rapport has fostered a trust that Raducanu values deeply. “We haven’t made anything formal, he’s someone I can really trust,” she remarked ahead of her clay-court campaign in Madrid, highlighting the strength of their bond.
The impact of Petchey’s guidance was evident in Miami, where Raducanu reached her first-ever WTA 1000 quarter-final. Her run included victories over formidable opponents, showcasing a level of consistency absent since her Grand Slam breakthrough. Observers have noted a tactical shift in her play, with a colleague of Petchey commenting that Raducanu’s game has been “changed” for the better. Jim Courier, a former world No. 1, praised Petchey’s addition as a “net positive,” particularly for her Grand Slam preparations. This sentiment underscores the belief that Petchey’s strategic input is helping Raducanu rediscover her top-tier form.
At the Madrid Open, Raducanu continued her upward trajectory, securing her first clay-court win of the season against Suzan Lamens in straight sets. Petchey’s presence courtside was a stabilizing factor, offering tactical insights that complemented her aggressive baseline play. The informal nature of their arrangement—described by Raducanu as “going really well”—allows for flexibility, accommodating Petchey’s commitments as a Tennis Channel commentator. This setup reflects Raducanu’s evolved approach to her career, prioritizing trust and familiarity over rigid structures.
Raducanu’s coaching history has been tumultuous, with seven different trainers since 2021, including Nigel Sears, Andrew Richardson, and Nick Cavaday. Her brief trial with Vladimir Platenik ended abruptly after a single match, underscoring her preference for collaborative chemistry over prescriptive coaching. Petchey, alongside long-time mentor Jane O’Donoghue, has created a supportive environment that aligns with Raducanu’s needs. “I’m trying to take it day-by-day,” she said, emphasizing her focus on balance and recovery after a demanding Miami campaign.
The clay season presents new challenges, but Raducanu’s recent performances suggest she is well-equipped to tackle them. With Petchey’s experience and her renewed confidence, the 22-year-old is poised to climb back into the world’s top 30, as predicted by tennis legend Martina Navratilova. As she prepares for potential clashes with top seeds like Aryna Sabalenka in Madrid, Raducanu’s partnership with Petchey is proving to be a game-changer, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in her career.