CLUJ-NAPOCA, Romania — 04 February 2026
British tennis star Emma Raducanu has signaled a return to her “super aggressive” roots, securing a dominant straight-sets victory over Greet Minnen at the Transylvania Open this week. The win marks a pivotal moment for the 2021 US Open champion, coming just days after a high-profile split from her coach, Francisco Roig.
Following a disappointing second-round exit at the Australian Open last month, Raducanu, 23, officially parted ways with Roig on 29 January 2026. The partnership lasted only six months. Insiders suggest the split was driven by Raducanu’s desire to reclaim her tennis “identity,” which she felt had become diluted during her recent slump in the WTA rankings.
The British No. 1 admitted that the changing conditions in Melbourne were “tricky,” but her performance in Romania suggests a renewed focus. Competing without a formal coach in her box, Raducanu dispatched Minnen with the clinical ball-striking that famously propelled her to a Grand Slam title as a qualifier.
“I wanted to return to the style I had when I was younger,” Raducanu remarked following her first-round win. “It’s about staying calm and playing my game.”
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Event | Transylvania Open (Winners Open) |
| Recent Result | Defeated Greet Minnen (Straight Sets) |
| Coaching Status | Vacant (Split with Francisco Roig) |
| Career Peak | WTA World No. 10 |
The search for Raducanu’s ninth coach in less than five years has already sparked intense speculation. Former world No. 1 Kim Clijsters is among the tennis legends who have publicly weighed in on the Briton’s decision-making, urging her to find stability as she navigates the 2026 season. Despite the off-court turnover, Raducanu remains a formidable force on the tour, currently focused on climbing back up the rankings after her recent dip following the Australian Open.
As the Transylvania Open progresses, all eyes remain on the “super aggressive” Raducanu to see if this independent streak can lead her back to the winner’s circle.