Iga Swiatek Heads to Rafa Nadal Academy for Clay Prep Following Split from Coach Wim Fissette

Posted : 26 March 2026

Iga Swiatek is entering a pivotal new chapter in her career as she shifts her focus to the upcoming European clay-court season. Following her shock opening-round exit at the Miami Open, the Polish star officially announced the end of her 18-month partnership with coach Wim Fissette on March 23, 2026. The split comes after a difficult start to the year where Swiatek failed to progress past the quarter-finals in any of her first four tournaments.

To regain her form, the six-time Grand Slam champion is expected to travel to the Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor, Spain. This move is seen as a strategic return to her roots, as the academy offers world-class clay-court facilities perfectly suited to her baseline-dominant style. Reports from Polish outlet Przeglad Sportowy Onet suggest that Swiatek’s team is actively looking for a Spanish coach to lead her through the next phase of the 2026 season.

Several high-profile names have already emerged as potential successors to Fissette. Francisco Roig, a long-time member of Rafael Nadal’s coaching staff, is considered a top candidate due to his expertise on clay and his recent experience on the WTA Tour. Other names linked to the vacancy include Michael Joyce, the former coach of Maria Sharapova, and Juan Carlos Ferrero, who recently became a free agent following his high-profile split from Carlos Alcaraz last December.

The coaching change marks a significant shift for the 24-year-old, who captured her maiden Wimbledon title under Fissette's guidance in 2025. Despite that success, Swiatek admitted to feeling "bitterness and disappointment" regarding her recent performances, specifically citing a loss of confidence. Her team has confirmed that while the head coach is changing, the rest of her support staff—including sports psychologist Daria Abramowicz—will remain in place.

Swiatek’s immediate goal is to defend her dominance at Roland Garros, where she has already secured four titles. An initial evaluation period with a new coach is expected to take place during her stay in Mallorca. The setting provides a familiar environment, as Swiatek has often cited Rafael Nadal as her primary sporting idol and tactical inspiration.

With the Stuttgart Open scheduled to begin on April 13, the tennis world is watching closely to see if a formal appointment will be made before the clay swing officially commences. Swiatek currently sits at world number three, having recently been overtaken by Elena Rybakina in the rankings, making this transition period critical for her hopes of reclaiming the top spot.

Iga Swiatek Heads to Rafa Nadal Academy for Clay Prep Following Split from Coach Wim Fissette

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