Emma Raducanu ends coaching relationship with Vladimir Platenik after two weeks

In the United States, Emma Raducanu began her campaign at the Miami Open amid significant changes in her coaching staff. The 2021 US Open champion had recently entered a coaching trial with Slovakian Vladimir Platenik, which lasted only a fortnight. Despite a promising start, with Raducanu performing well in early matches, Platenik was unexpectedly relieved of his duties just before her first-round match against Japanese player Sayaka Ishii. In what was described as a mutual decision, Raducanu's management directed the change, stating that their collaboration was not progressing as hoped. Platenik had anticipated continuing with Raducanu until at least the French Open but expressed understanding regarding her decision. During their brief time together, Platenik noted that Raducanu was learning at an exceptional rate, especially regarding her footwork and serve technique. He touted her skills, claiming she improved faster than any player he had coached previously. While Raducanu has faced challenges recently, including injuries affecting her serve technique, her first-round match at the Miami Open brought some relief as she secured a decisive victory with minimal errors, indicating that some of Platenik's coaching methods may have had a positive impact. Nevertheless, Raducanu now finds herself on the lookout for another permanent coach to fill the void left by Platenik and Nick Cavaday, who had stepped down earlier due to health concerns. As she navigates the complex world of professional tennis, maintaining consistency and addressing her previous difficulties with techniques will be crucial to her future success.