TV executives have indicated that Mark Petchey can continue coaching Emma Raducanu on a part-time basis.
If they decide to continue their partnership after the initial two weeks, it could lead to them working together at Wimbledon.
Petchey, 54, was supporting Raducanu when she was defeated by Jessica Pegula in three sets in the Miami Open quarter-finals.
During the late-night match, she felt “dizziness” possibly due to the humidity and the delayed start, requiring medical attention.
Petchey is currently a commentator and analyst for the Tennis Channel.
He only assisted Raducanu because she needed guidance after unexpectedly ending her trial with Vladimir Platenik from Slovakia.
Sources indicate that Tennis Channel is supportive of Petchey continuing in a dual role, combining coaching with his broadcasting duties.
Previously, Tennis Channel personalities like Lindsay Davenport and Paul Annacone have both coached top players and provided commentary.
Petchey coached Andy Murray for ten months when Murray was 18 and also trained with Raducanu during the summer of the 2020 Covid pandemic.
They have a positive relationship, and he was seen participating in warm-up routines with her team in Florida.
Petchey has not yet commented on the situation but shared a cryptic message on social media, stating: “I think most advice is a reflection of the giver’s limits, not your potential.”
In the second set against Pegula, Raducanu displayed some of her best tennis since her US Open victory in 2021 at the age of 18.
Raducanu, expected to return to the world’s top 50 on Monday, was leading 5-2 and had four set points before requesting medical assistance.
After having her blood pressure checked and receiving ice towels, she resumed play and leveled the match at one set each in the tie-break.
However, Pegula, 31, demonstrated her high ranking by winning 6-4, 6-7, 6-2. She was scheduled to play against 19-year-old Alexandra Eala in the semi-finals.
Raducanu, 22, explained, “I just felt very dizzy and faint.”
“The humidity was high, and we had a significant wait before the match started.”
“It might be due to physical factors, as there were long rallies in tough conditions.”
“I’m unsure how I recovered in the second set, but I struggled a bit in the third.”
“I am proud of my fight and competitiveness throughout the match.”
“Jessica played exceptionally well from beginning to end, showing her class.”
“Despite the loss, I can take positives from this week and look forward. It was good to feel like I was playing well again.”
“That feeling has been missing, along with the fighting spirit, which I rediscovered this week.”
“It’s refreshing to have that feeling back on the court.”
Raducanu is scheduled to compete in the Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers for Britain against Germany and the Netherlands on April 11-12.
Following that, she will focus on the European clay-court season, including the French Open in late May, and then transition to grass court events.
Regarding her immediate plans, she stated, “I need to pause and re-evaluate my direction.”
“This week was beneficial, but I need to sort things out before making future plans.”
