After Miami Open horror, Iga Swiatek hires Rafael Nadal’s former coach Francisco Roig

Iga Swiatek has wasted little time in resetting her season after her Miami Open disappointment, bringing in Rafael Nadal’s former coach Francisco Roig in a major shake-up to her team. The move comes after a disappointing campaign in Miami, where the Polish star suffered a shock early exit in her opening match of the tournament.

Seeded No. 2, Swiatek was stunned in the second round by fellow Pole Magda Linette, who 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, highlighting just how rare and damaging the loss was for the former world No. 1 and former Miami Open champion.

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In response, Swiatek has 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! Very excited for this new chapter.”

Following her Miami Open exit in March, Swiatek parted ways with Wim Fissette as she looks to regain momentum ahead of the clay-court swing. Roig’s arrival is viewed as a significant boost, given his vast experience at the highest level of the sport.

ROIG’S STINTS WITH NADAL, RADUCANU

Roig is best known for his long and successful association with Rafael Nadal. He was part of Nadal’s coaching setup from 2005 to 2022, serving as a trusted senior figure through multiple stages of the Spaniard’s legendary career. During Roig’s time in the camp, Nadal captured all 22 of his Grand Slam titles, including a record 14 French Open crowns, while also spending 209 weeks as world No.1.

Interestingly, Roig’s new role comes just months after his brief spell with Emma Raducanu ended. The Brit had brought him on board in August 2025, but the partnership lasted only around six months, with Raducanu confirming their split in January 2026 following her Australian Open exit. She later revealed that it was Roig who decided to end the partnership, although the split appeared amicable.

With the clay season fast approaching, Swiatek will now hope Roig’s pedigree and experience can help her bounce back quickly from a jarring Miami setback.

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