Emma Raducanu, currently ranked 41st in the world, is experiencing difficulties rejoining the upper echelons of tennis, according to her coach, Mark Petchey. Following a disappointing exit in the second round of the French Open against Iga Swiatek, Petchey highlighted how the game has changed since Raducanu's 2021 US Open triumph. He pointed to the impact of heavier tennis balls and her need to adapt her game. Petchey, who describes their coaching relationship as informal, urges Raducanu to prioritize long-term growth over short-term rankings.
"From my point of view, it's tough on Emma as I still feel everyone is living in 2021," said Petchey, who has been coaching Raducanu in an "informal" arrangement since March.
"The balls are four times heavier than back in 2021 and Emma isn't the biggest hitter out there. If you can't put the ball through the court...you're going to get into all sorts of trouble."
"Since I started helping Emma, I said she needs to start closing the gap between the best players. She doesn't need me to sit between 20-50 in the world..."
"My mantra to her has been that you are starting your career now...I want to see you building a career here where people judge you in two years."
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