Emma Raducanu's coaching arrangement with Mark Petchey has divided opinion among tennis fans. The world No. 49 has been working with Petchey since the Miami Open.
However, their partnership remains "informal" as Petchey also works as a commentator for Tennis Channel.
Raducanu has been without a full-time coach since Nick Cavaday left her team in January due to health issues.
The former US Open champion briefly worked with childhood mentor Roman Kelecic and had an unsuccessful trial with Vladimir Platenik before reuniting with Petchey.
Emma Raducanu has revealed that working with Mark Petchey is going wellReutersPetchey has been in Raducanu's corner for her last three tournaments in Miami, Madrid and Rome, following a training block together in Los Angeles.
A recent poll revealed that 89 per cent of fans want Petchey to remain involved with Raducanu's coaching.
However, opinion is split on whether their arrangement should be formalised.
Of those supporting Petchey's involvement, 44 per cent believe Raducanu is right to keep things "informal" while 45 per cent want them to establish a formal coaching agreement.
The practical challenge of this arrangement has become evident in recent weeks. Petchey's full-time role as a Tennis Channel commentator creates scheduling conflicts.
While he managed to support Raducanu at both the Miami and Madrid WTA 1000 events, his commentary duties prevented him from being in her box earlier this week in Rome.
This balancing act has raised questions about the sustainability of their partnership, especially as Raducanu continues her comeback on the tour.
Ideally, the 22-year-old would find someone to share coaching duties when Petchey is unavailable.
Fellow British tennis star Dan Evans has expressed doubts about the longevity of this arrangement.
"It can't last if she starts losing matches and Petchey is in the commentary box. That's not going to work," Evans said.
Mark Petchey previously coached Andy MurrayGETTYHe predicted further changes to Raducanu's coaching setup in the near future.
"I think Emma will be looking for a new coach again pretty soon if she starts to lose some matches on the grass into the US swing. I'm not sure how that can last as it is."
For now, Jane O'Donoghue has stepped in to travel with Raducanu, taking leave from her finance job to support the young player.
However, this arrangement is also temporary and cannot be sustained indefinitely.
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Fans are split on whether Mark Petchey should have a more prominent role as Emma Raducanu's coach
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The situation highlights Raducanu's ongoing challenge to find coaching stability since her breakthrough US Open victory.
While fans clearly value Petchey's influence on her game, the practical realities of his dual commitments may ultimately force a more permanent solution.
Until then, Raducanu continues to navigate her comeback with a patchwork support system.
