Brad Gilbert Analyzes Swiatek’s Technical Pivot Following Francisco Roig and Nadal Collaboration

Coach Brad Gilbert discusses the movement gap between Swiatek and Raducanu as Iga trains with Rafael Nadal in Mallorca. Read the full expert analysis.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 3:41 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Tennis365

A Strategic Realignment at the Rafa Nadal Academy

The landscape of women’s professional tennis has witnessed a significant structural shift as Iga Swiatek moves to revitalize her 2026 campaign. Following a drop from world number two to number four and a premature exit from the Miami Open, the reigning Wimbledon champion terminated her working relationship with Wim Fissette. Her subsequent appointment of Francisco Roig, who recently concluded a stint with Emma Raducanu, has led her to the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca for intensive technical refinement.

Differentiating the Athletic Profiles of Roig’s Charges

Brad Gilbert, speaking on the Big T Podcast, provided a comparative analysis of Roig’s previous and current pupils, focusing heavily on their physical capabilities. Gilbert argued that Swiatek’s exceptional speed, which he ranks as the second-best on the WTA Tour, allows her to extend rallies in a way that Raducanu currently cannot. According to Gilbert, this athletic advantage gives Roig and his consulting partner, Rafael Nadal, the tactical flexibility to implement a more grinding, defensive style if necessary.

Integrating the Trademark Forehand of a Legend

The collaboration in Mallorca has extended beyond coaching staff to include direct involvement from twenty-two-time Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal. Footage from recent practice sessions revealed Nadal instructing Swiatek on the execution of his signature buggy whip forehand, a move Gilbert described as incredibly cool and invaluable. The American coach noted that observing a legend of the game personally demonstrating high-performance mechanics on the court provides a level of mentorship that is rare at the professional level.