British tennis star Emma Raducanu’s newly appointed coach, Carlos Rivera, is facing early scrutiny just weeks into their partnership, as the 2021 US Open champion struggles to regain her form on the WTA tour.
Raducanu, 22, recently returned from a prolonged injury layoff and appointed Rivera, a relatively unknown Spanish coach with a reputation for developing junior talent, to guide her comeback. However, back-to-back early exits in Madrid and Rome have raised concerns among fans and pundits, many questioning the decision to entrust such a pivotal stage of her career to an inexperienced coach.
“Tactically, she looked lost out there,” said former British No. 1 Annabel Croft after Raducanu’s straight-sets loss in Rome. “There’s a lack of clarity in her game, and that usually points to issues in coaching.”
Social media has also reacted swiftly, with the hashtag #RaducanuCoach trending over the weekend, as supporters debate whether the young star needs a more seasoned figure in her corner.
Despite the criticism, Raducanu has remained publicly supportive of Rivera. “Carlos brings a fresh perspective, and this is a long-term project,” she told reporters. “We’re building step by step.”
Still, with Wimbledon fast approaching, the pressure is mounting for the duo to deliver results — or risk another shake-up in what has already been a turbulent coaching carousel for the British sensation.
