Iga Swiatek to train at Rafa Nadal Academy ahead of clay swing as coach candidates emerge

Thursday, 26 March 2026 at 04:30

Swiatek prepares for her service at roland garros 2025

The search for Iga Swiatek’s next coach is underway following her split from Wim Fissette, with new information pointing toward a Spanish direction as she prepares for the clay-court season. Reports from Polish outlet Przeglad Sportowy Onet indicate that the former World No. 1 is expected to begin her preparations at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca.

The six-time Grand Slam champion confirmed on March 23 the end of her 18-month collaboration with Fissette, triggering immediate speculation about her next move. The timing places added importance on her preparation phase, with the European clay swing representing a critical segment of her season.

According to the report, a potential coaching candidate could already join Swiatek in Mallorca in the coming days, where an initial evaluation period is expected to take place. The outlet suggests that her team is leaning toward a Spanish coaching profile aligned with her tactical identity.

The move comes at a key stage in Swiatek’s calendar, given her dominance on clay, where she has won four Roland Garros titles. With the surface forming the foundation of her success, any coaching decision is expected to prioritise continuity in her baseline-oriented game.

Spanish candidates emerge as leading options

Przeglad Sportowy Onet reports that Spanish coaches are currently viewed as the most serious candidates to join Swiatek’s team, reflecting a stylistic alignment with her preferred approach—constructed points, consistency from the baseline, and controlled aggression.

One of the names highlighted is Francisco Roig, a long-time member of Rafael Nadal’s coaching team, who also had a brief collaboration with Emma Raducanu in recent months. However, the report notes potential logistical complications related to his recent work with Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard during the Sunshine Double.

Joan Bosch, coach of Alexandra Eala and a figure closely linked to the Nadal Academy, confirmed contact with the academy regarding Swiatek’s arrival in Mallorca. While not confirming any formal discussions, his comments reinforce the likelihood of a Spanish training environment during this phase. “I have already asked the Academy if Iga Swiatek and I could have a training session when she arrives in Mallorca," he said to Przeglad Sportowy Onet.

The report indicates that a trial period is expected, consistent with standard practice in professional tennis, where player-coach relationships are often tested before formalising long-term agreements.

Bosch outlines coaching philosophy and potential fit

Bosch also offered his perspective on Swiatek’s current needs, suggesting that a return to her core playing identity could be central to her next phase. His comments align with the broader narrative surrounding her recent adjustments. “In my opinion, a Spanish coach would be a good option for Swiatek. I agree with her recent statements that the goal should be to recover her natural style of play: from the baseline, with solid defence, because that is what defines Iga.”

He acknowledged his interest in working with Swiatek, while making clear that his current focus remains on Alexandra Eala, who is currently ranked World No. 29. “We spoke a year ago, and even then I said I would love to work with Iga Swiatek one day. It would be an honour. For now, I am fully focused on Alex, but it is natural that, having worked with Carlos Moya and reached the top 10 in the ATP, I would like to do something similar in the WTA.”

“It’s a great challenge. Ideally, I would do it with Eala, because we have been together from the beginning and I value long-term relationships. But I also love Iga’s tennis, her talent and her work ethic. She is someone with whom a coach can reach Grand Slams. Yes, it would be incredible to work with her one day.”

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Bosch has also followed Swiatek closely during recent tournaments, including Indian Wells and Miami, where her early exit drew attention. He was present during her defeat to Magda Linette, a match that determined Eala’s next opponent. "Iga played an amazing first set, and then she stopped winning the most important points… It shows how important those crucial points are in tennis, and how important mental preparation is.”

Clay-court season set to define next phase

Swiatek’s immediate focus now shifts to the clay swing, where she remains one of the most dominant players of her generation. Her four Roland Garros titles underline her effectiveness on the surface, making this period central to both her season and long-term trajectory.

Preparation at the Rafa Nadal Academy, if confirmed, would provide an environment closely aligned with her playing style, as well as access to coaches with extensive experience in clay-court development. The setting also reinforces the reported Spanish direction of her coaching search.

While no official appointment has been announced, the coming weeks are expected to clarify the structure of Swiatek’s team. The combination of a new coaching voice and a return to clay could prove decisive as she looks to reassert control at the top of the WTA rankings.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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