Greg Rusedski Returns to ATP Tour as Lead Coach for Rising French Star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard Following Roig Split

Former British No. 1 Greg Rusedski begins a coaching trial with French rising star Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard after a sudden split from Francisco Roig. Read more.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 4:04 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Tennis365

A Tactical Alignment of Big Servers

Greg Rusedski, a former world number four and 1997 US Open finalist, has confirmed his return to professional coaching alongside French talent Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard. Rusedski, who has previously coached high-profile athletes such as former world number one Victoria Azarenka, noted that the pairing was a natural fit given their shared playing styles. Both men are recognized for a power-based game centered on an aggressive serve and an active net presence. Rusedski explained that the opportunity to work with such a talented young athlete was an "interesting project" that prompted his return to the tour, specifically to help the Frenchman refine his offensive capabilities.

The Trial Period and Long-Term Goals

The new coaching arrangement began in Monte Carlo, where the pair has spent several days on court preparing for the clay-court season. Rusedski clarified that the partnership is currently structured as a trial period that will extend until the conclusion of Wimbledon. This timeframe allows both the coach and the player to assess their personal chemistry and determine if they can generate the necessary momentum to climb higher in the ATP rankings. Rusedski emphasized the importance of taking several weeks to build a relationship, focusing on Mpetshi Perricard's personality and identifying specific technical areas that require immediate improvement.

Navigating the Fallout from the Francisco Roig Exit

The vacancy in Mpetshi Perricard’s team was created by the sudden departure of Francisco Roig, a veteran coach who spent nearly twenty years in Rafael Nadal's camp. Roig had briefly worked with Mpetshi Perricard after parting ways with Emma Raducanu earlier this year. However, the partnership ended abruptly following the Miami Open when Roig accepted an offer to become the principal coach for Iga Swiatek. Mpetshi Perricard has been vocal about his disappointment regarding the manner of the split, stating that he was informed of the decision by his agent rather than directly by Roig. The Frenchman characterized the transition as a surprising and ruthless move within the professional circuit.