In the high-stakes world of professional tennis, where every match is a test of skill and resilience, Emma Raducanu faced a formidable challenge at the 2025 US Open. The 22-year-old British star, who captured the tennis world’s imagination with her fairy-tale victory at Flushing Meadows in 2021, saw her tournament journey end in the third round. Elena Rybakina, a relentless force on the court, overpowered Raducanu in a swift 6-1, 6-2 defeat that lasted just 62 minutes. Despite the loss, Raducanu remains upbeat about her evolving game and her new partnership with coach Francisco Roig, a seasoned mentor with a storied history alongside Rafael Nadal.
Raducanu and Roig’s collaboration began just weeks before the Cincinnati Open, marking a fresh chapter for the young player known for her frequent coaching changes. Their agreement, as Raducanu revealed post-match, is set to continue through the end of the 2025 season. “Yeah, right now we’re working through to the end of the year,” she said, her tone reflecting a blend of determination and optimism. “I’m looking forward to just getting back to work really.” For Raducanu, the three weeks under Roig’s guidance have already yielded noticeable progress. “It’s only been three weeks, but I think it’s been a pretty successful three weeks in a sense that we’ve made good improvements,” she added, highlighting the technical and tactical strides she’s made in a short time.
Roig, a 57-year-old Spaniard, brings a wealth of experience to Raducanu’s team. Having spent nearly two decades as part of Nadal’s coaching setup, contributing to all 22 of the tennis legend’s Grand Slam triumphs, Roig is renowned for his technical expertise and calm demeanor. His influence was evident in Raducanu’s recent performances, particularly in Cincinnati, where she pushed world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka to a thrilling three-set match. Raducanu’s serve, a focal point of her work with Roig, has shown marked improvement, with her second serve reaching speeds of over 100 mph and a winning percentage that ranks among her best this season. Her ability to compete against top-tier players like Sabalenka, even in defeat, underscores the potential of this partnership.
The road to the US Open was paved with promising results. Raducanu’s semi-final run at the Washington Open and solid showings in Montreal and Cincinnati provided a strong foundation for her New York campaign. Her first-round victory over Japanese qualifier Ena Shibahara was a testament to her growing confidence, as she delivered her fastest professional win in just 62 minutes, 6-1, 6-2. A second-round triumph over Janice Tjen further showcased her precision and aggression, with eight aces, zero double faults, and a commanding 79 percent first-serve rate. However, Rybakina’s dominance in the third round exposed the gap Raducanu still needs to bridge to consistently challenge the sport’s elite. Her record against top-ten players remains a hurdle, with eight consecutive losses and only three wins in 16 career matches, none against the likes of Rybakina, Sabalenka, or Iga Swiatek.
Raducanu’s partnership with Roig is not just about technical refinement but also about fostering a balanced approach to training. Known for her perfectionist tendencies, Raducanu has found Roig’s guidance refreshing. “He’s great at having that calm and composure about him, reassuring me that all the work we’re doing off the court doesn’t need to pay off straight away,” she said. Their dynamic extends beyond the court, with moments of levity—playing soccer and golf together—that help maintain a positive atmosphere. This balance is crucial for Raducanu, who has battled injuries and the pressures of early fame since her 2021 breakthrough. After missing much of 2023 due to wrist and ankle surgeries, she has climbed back to world No. 35, a testament to her resilience and work ethic.
The tennis world is watching closely, with figures like Martina Navratilova expressing hope that Raducanu will commit to Roig long-term. His disciplined, detail-oriented approach aligns well with Raducanu’s desire for technical growth, and his experience with Nadal offers a blueprint for sustained success. As Raducanu prepares for the remainder of the 2025 season, her focus is clear: refine her shots, build consistency, and harness Roig’s expertise to close the gap with the top players. “I’m enjoying getting better, and the process of feeling like at the end of the day I’m satisfied I got a little bit better,” she said, encapsulating her forward-looking mindset.
While the US Open loss stung, it has not dimmed Raducanu’s belief in her potential. With Roig by her side, she is poised to continue her ascent, blending her natural talent with the tactical acumen of a coach who has shaped champions. The journey ahead promises challenges, but for Raducanu, the partnership with Roig could be the key to unlocking her full potential and reclaiming her place among tennis’s elite.
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