“It’s going to be difficult… scary”: Danielle Collins reacts to Iga Swiatek hiring Rafael Nadal’s former coach
WTASunday, 05 April 2026 at 19:00
Danielle Collins warned that Iga Swiatek’s latest move could have a strong impact on the rest of the tour, describing it as “scary for everybody” following the Pole’s decision to bring in Francisco Roig as her new coach. The Spaniard worked for years alongside Rafael Nadal, and the 22-time Grand Slam champion has also been present during Swiatek’s recent training sessions in Spain.
Collins, speaking on Tennis Channel, offered a direct assessment of the situation, placing the focus on Swiatek’s career trajectory rather than the novelty of the change. She pointed to Swiatek’s résumé—multiple Grand Slam titles and time at No. 1—as the starting point for understanding what kind of coaching she now requires.
Swiatek arrives at this stage after an uneven opening stretch to the 2026 season, including an early exit at the Miami Open—her first opening-round loss at the event since 2021. The defeat followed her own admission that the game has recently felt “complicated” in her head, raising questions around both clarity and execution.
In response, Swiatek has shifted her preparation to Spain ahead of the clay swing, training at the Rafa Nadal Academy while adding Roig to her team. The move brings in a coach with extensive experience at the highest level, particularly on clay, where Swiatek has already built one of the strongest records on tour, including four Roland Garros titles.
Experience at the highest level
Collins framed the appointment in simple terms: a player with Swiatek’s achievements needs guidance from someone who has operated at that same level. The emphasis, in her view, is not on change, but on precision.
“When you’ve had the level of success that Iga Swiatek has had at such a young age—winning multiple Grand Slams and building an impressive résumé—you need someone who has operated at the very highest level. She has already been there, so the next step requires that same calibre of experience.”
She also pointed to the broader competitive impact, linking the move to Swiatek’s already established strength on clay. “It’s going to be difficult for the rest of the tour to deal with whatever comes next from this new coaching partnership. It’s going to be scary for everybody.”
Collins also highlighted the role of a new voice inside an established structure. Even small changes, she noted, can alter routines and decision-making patterns. “I also think there’s value in having a fresh perspective. Bringing in someone new can change routines and offer different insights. Even small adjustments can make a big difference.”
Collins on idols and personality fit
In a separate part of the discussion, Collins was asked about the idea of training with idols, a topic that emerged given Swiatek’s long-standing admiration for Nadal. While Nadal was an obvious reference, Collins pointed instead to Jimmy Connors when asked about her own choice.
“Rafa would definitely be up there. Who knows, maybe Iga will invite me out to Spain and we can do a little training block together. That would be fun. But if I had to pick an idol, I think I would go with Jimmy Connors.”
She linked that choice to similarities in style and personality. “We have a similar game and similar personalities—we’re both fiery. I feel like he has the experience and expertise to deal with a personality like me. Beyond that, we would have a lot of fun off the court. It would just create good memories both on and off the court.”
Collins also referred to her own experience with Connors, pointing to familiarity as a factor in any working relationship. “There’s just something about Jimmy Connors. When I’ve met him and been on his podcast, I felt like we were best friends. I know he would have my back through everything.”
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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- Two major problems with sports (and Life) in today's world... 1. Self-imposed "experts" like Gilbert, Clijsters, and Stubbs can't keep their nasty opinions and rumors to themselves. They feel a need to talk about things they have no relation to, nor a clue. 2. People & anti-Social Media.
- Anyone else notice how general mental & physical fatigue is a major issue now, given WTA's ignorant refusal to consider the stress of their idiotic scheduling and additional demands??
- What a load of bullshit. Artur Szostaczko failed to mention that he didn't get hired!!
- Almost condescending. BTW: That was another anti-climactic Final compared to several of the excellent pre-Final matches.
- Sounds like maybe a mental health break? Miss her on the tour. My favorite American female player. Hurry back Emma!
- Why are microphones even allowed in front of the coaching boxes??? In this age of hi-tech, whatever is heard (strategy or otherwise) can instantly be relayed to any given opponent. How and why did WTA decide to slip this past everyone? Also, these strategic placements of mic's is obvious stupidity initiating a commentator's personal decision to expound upon -- and apologize for -- foul language, etc., when a player or team member curses, etc. Then media pounces upon every off-color phrase or word in their sensationalistic "news coverage". This practice of literally -- and openly -- eavesdropping needs to stop!!
- So she actually CAN think clearly! If she wants to play tennis, make it a priority. Learn from Life choices (like having a kid with her rapper ex). Today's game is a grueling exercise in Humility if one is not fully dedicated; or does not have the time to do The Work. Raducanu is a shining example of someone with the talent but lacks the drive, attitude, and/or devotion it takes to maintain 100% capacity of everything the Tour demands.
- It's as if troubled 'Condescending Collins' is competing with The Williams' for the daily spotlight. Some just do not know when to quit. Go fix yourselves and stop informing the public of your personal problems. The general public has their own issues in Life.
- Coach Macci and Martina Navratilova are seemingly the only reasonable voices coming out of the tennis circuit in regards to Iga at the moment. People like Stubbs, Gilbert, and anti-Social Media dwellers have very little or nothing to offer. What they are indeed is... predictable. Why certain media think their input is of value is a mystery. Perhaps easy filler for their publications? Media, in general, could/should consider their poor choices and lazy habits of running to the Loudest Mouths for "expert advice". Certain Internet 'news sources' might do their own research and STOP COPYING & PASTING the first articles to hit the web with little-to-no editing or true journalism. As for Iga (and any athlete) they are not robots. They are Human Beings and Humans, as we all know, are not infallable. Leave the expert criticisms and "solutions" to these athletes and their teams. Disgruntled bettors and so-called "experts" are not a solution!
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