Iga Swiatek has wasted little time resetting her season after her Miami Open disappointment, bringing in former Rafael Nadal coach Francisco Roig for a major shake-up of her team. The move comes after a disappointing campaign in Miami, where the Polish star suffered a shock exit in his opening match of the tournament.
No. 2 seed, Swiatek was stunned by fellow Pole Magda Linette in the second roundwho rallied from a set down to claim a 1-6, 7-5, 6-3 victory. The defeat ended Swiatek’s remarkable 73-match opening-round winning streak and highlighted just how rare and damaging the loss was for the former world number one and former Miami Open champion.
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In response, Swiatek turned to Francisco Roig, one of the most respected coaching figures in tennis. On Thursday, the five-time Grand Slam champion confirmed the appointment by posting a photo with Roig on social media, writing: “Welcome to the team, Francisco! I’m very much looking forward to this new chapter.” Courtesy: Igs Swiatek Instagram
Following her exit from the Miami Open in March, Swiatek split with Wim Fissett as she looks to regain momentum ahead of the clay court swing. Roig’s arrival is seen as a significant boost given his extensive experience at the sport’s highest level.
ROIG’S STINTS WITH NADAL, RADUCAN
Roig is best known for his long and successful partnership with Rafael Nadal. He was part of Nadal’s coaching setup from 2005 to 2022, serving as a trusted senior figure at several stages of the Spaniard’s storied career. During Roig’s time at the camp, Nadal won all 22 of his Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Open crowns, while also spending 209 weeks as world number one.
Interestingly, Roig’s new role comes just months after his brief stint with Emma Raducanu ended. The Briton brought him on board in August 2025, but the partnership only lasted about six months, with Raducana confirming their split in January 2026 following her withdrawal from the Australian Open. She later revealed that it was Roig who decided to end the partnership, although the split appeared to be amicable.
With the clay court season fast approaching, Swiatek will now be hoping that Roig’s pedigree and experience will help her bounce back quickly from the embarrassing setback in Miami.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
02 Apr 2026 17:55 IST
