How Emma Raducanu is thriving at Miami Open without full-time coach

Whether it has been winning a Grand Slam title as an unknown rookie, employing a carousel of coaches, or tailoring her schedule outside of the accepted norm, Raducanu regularly does what she thinks is right for her.

That doesn’t always work out for the best, but she continues to stay true to her convictions.

Ending a short-lived partnership with Slovakian coach Vladimir Platenik on the eve of this tournament was another decision which was initially met by surprise.

But her run on the hard courts in Miami – a faster surface which suits her style – suggests the move has paid off.

Raducanu has played with a freedom and confidence only seen sporadically since her stunning US Open success.

“I feel when I am boxed into a regimented way then I am not able to express myself in the same way,” Raducanu told Sky Sports.

In Florida she has been guided by Mark Petchey – a well-known figure in British tennis circles who worked with her as a teenager.

Petchey, who used to coach Andy Murray in his salad days on the ATP Tour, has been giving pointers on the practice courts and offering coaching advice from Raducanu’s box.

Petchey has been working alongside Raducanu’s long-time ally Jane O’Donoghue and fitness trainer Yutaka Nakamura.

What Raducanu describes as a “different approach” has brought an emphasis on having fun at the right times, with shorter, less intense practice and warm-up sessions.

“This week has been a great eye-opener to just when I’m happy and expressive and myself,” Raducanu said.

“Having people that I’ve known for a very long time, since before the US Open, is the most valuable thing for this week at least.”