Iga Swiatek hires former Nadal coach Francisco Roig after Fissette split
World number four Iga Swiatek has appointed Francisco Roig as her new coach ahead of the clay-court season following a split from Wim Fissette.
The four-time French Open champion has recently been training with the Spanish coach at Rafael Nadal’s academy in Manacor.
Roig brings immense elite-level experience, having been a core member of Nadal’s backroom team for 16 of his 22 Grand Slam victories.
A natural fit for the clay courts
The 24-year-old is seeking to rediscover her dominant form following a turbulent period of results that culminated in an opening-round exit at the Miami Open.
Despite previous tournament success alongside Fissette, the Polish star felt her tactical development had stalled under his guidance.
Swiatek’s heavy top-spin technique and aggressive movement on the dirt surface are heavily inspired by her idol Nadal, making his former mentor an ideal tactical match.
I know there are many questions, but l’ll let you know what’s next at the right time.
Iga Swiatek
She added that she was taking time to process the experience and properly prepare for a new chapter in her career.
Raducanu continues solo approach
The new appointment comes just months after Roig was dismissed by Emma Raducanu following a second-round exit at the Australian Open in January.
The former US Open champion ended their six-month partnership amid fundamental disagreements over her playing style and attempted tweaks to her forehand.
I have had a lot of people telling me what to do, how to play, and it hasn’t necessarily fit.
Emma Raducanu
The British player stated that her natural instincts on the court had been temporarily lost during a period of frequent personnel changes.
She currently remains without a full-time coach and intends to rely on a wider range of voices in the short term to avoid the pressure of public scrutiny.
