Emma Raducanu’s tennis journey has been nothing short of a rollercoaster—a meteoric rise to Grand Slam glory at just 18, followed by a string of injuries that threatened to derail her career. But here’s where it gets intriguing: after years of setbacks, 2026 could be her comeback year, and it’s all thanks to a strategic partnership with coach Francisco Roig. But why would a seasoned coach like Roig join her team now? Former British number one Greg Rusedski has some compelling theories.
Raducanu’s 2021 US Open triumph was a fairy tale, but the years that followed were a harsh reality check. Injuries kept her off the court, stalling her momentum. However, 2025 marked a turning point. A fully fit Raducanu returned to the circuit, consistently competing and climbing back up the rankings. This resurgence earned her a seeded spot at this year’s Australian Open—a testament to her resilience and the support of her team.
And this is the part most people miss: Roig’s addition to her team isn’t just about coaching; it’s about stability and belief. Rusedski, speaking to Tennis365, emphasized the need for patience after years of unfair criticism. He pointed out that Raducanu’s early success set unrealistic expectations. “Winning a Slam at 18 is unprecedented—only the all-time greats have done it,” he noted. “But the pressure to become world number one or the face of the WTA was overwhelming. Now, with Roig, she has the solid foundation she’s been missing.”
Rusedski also highlighted Raducanu’s promising start to 2026, particularly her United Cup match against Maria Sakkari. Despite a three-set loss, her performance showed she’s on the right track. “Francisco is a strong character,” Rusedski added. “He wouldn’t commit unless he saw real potential for her to reach the second week of Slams—or even win another major. This partnership feels different, and I’m excited to see where it goes.”
As Raducanu transitions to the Hobart International, all eyes are on her. Being the top seed in Tasmania is uncharted territory for the 22-year-old, and her performance here could set the tone for the Australian Open. But here’s the controversial question: Did Raducanu’s early Grand Slam success ultimately hinder her development? Some argue it placed her under unbearable pressure, while others believe it was a blessing. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
One thing’s for sure: with Roig by her side, Raducanu’s story is far from over. Will 2026 be her year? Only time will tell. But for now, the tennis world is watching—and hoping—for a triumphant return.
