Tennis star Emma Raducanu has once again found herself at the center of headlines after making a startling statement about her coaching situation that has left fans and pundits alike reeling.
Following her early exit at the Stuttgart Open, Raducanu was asked during a post-match interview about her recent coaching switch — her fifth in under three years. Her response was anything but expected.
“This time, it’s different. I’m done with trying to please everyone. I’ve made my decision, and there’s no going back,” Raducanu said firmly. “This coach sees me — not just the player everyone wants me to be.”
While Raducanu didn’t name her new coach during the interview, sources close to the camp confirm she has partnered with renowned mental performance expert-turned-coach Elena Vesnik, a move that breaks from her past hires with traditional coaching backgrounds.
The tennis community was quick to react. Some praised the 2021 US Open champion for taking control of her career and putting her mental wellbeing first, while others questioned whether this bold, unconventional path would bring consistency to her results.
“She’s clearly searching for something that works long-term,” said former British No. 1 Tim Henman on a sports panel. “But the lack of stability could be a risk — especially with the French Open just weeks away.”
Raducanu, who has faced intense scrutiny since her breakout win at Flushing Meadows, seems unfazed. “I know people will talk,” she added. “But I’m not here to follow the script. I’m writing my own.”
With this latest chapter unfolding, one thing is clear — Raducanu is taking her career in a direction no one saw coming, and the tennis world will be watching closely.
