This week, social media was buzzing with speculation that Rafael Nadal could join Iga Swiatek’s team as her coach.
The six-time major winner recently parted ways with coach Wim Fissette after an early exit at the Miami Open. Fissette had joined Iga’s team in October 2024 and helped guide her to her first Wimbledon Championships title last July.
While Rafa has said many times that he is focused on family life and not interested in coaching, fans couldn’t help but dream.
With the clay season now underway, Iga has officially found a new coach and it’s someone very close to Rafa. She has appointed Francisco Roig, a long-time member of Rafa’s team, as her new coach. Roig most recently worked with Emma Raducanu, but is best known for his years alongside Rafa, contributing to 16 of his 22 Grand Slam titles.
Q. Is it true that Rafael Nadal helped you in your search for a coach? And is it true that he’ll be in your box in Stuttgart and at other clay tournaments?
Iga: “It’s no secret that Rafa is my idol and pretty much the only person I watched playing tennis as a kid. He was also kind enough to talk to me a few times during his career and give me tips. He’s someone I can turn to if I need help or have some problem to solve. Help from someone so experienced… actually the best… is of course a fantastic opportunity, and I’ll take advantage of it whenever I can. Rafa is very open. He’s a great person. Just the fact that I have his number and can contact him is a huge honor for me. But honestly, whether he helped me or not, I’d like to keep that between us, because he’s part of that story. I wouldn’t want to put him in an awkward position.”
We wish Iga the best in rediscovering her form and getting back to winning the biggest titles. And for Rafa fans, it’s always a joy to see him welcoming Iga again at his Academy, smiling as they pose together.
Mutual respect and admiration-a delight🥰
Iga and Rafa brought a smile to my face!🤩😍 I wish Iga and her new coach all the best!