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Jun 20, 2026
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Tim Henman hopes Raducanu’s coach reunion fuels a comeback at the Laver Cup

AI Summary
Tim Henman, former British No.4, discusses Emma Raducanu’s return to coach Andrew Richardson and her vice‑captain duties at the Laver Cup. He also critiques the modern tennis calendar and its impact on player health, while offering a cautious outlook for Raducanu and fellow Brit Jack Draper.

Tim Henman says tennis is "in a good place, but it could be better" as he weighs in on Emma Raducanu's coaching saga and her new vice‑captain role at the Laver Cup. The former world No.4 reflects on his own gritty rise, the challenges of a packed schedule, and what a stable partnership with Andrew Richardson could mean for the future of British tennis.

Henman’s View on Tennis’s Current Landscape

During a candid interview at the Queen’s Club, Henman highlighted three core issues he sees in the sport today:

  • Over‑crowded Masters 1000 events lasting twelve days.
  • Insufficient recovery periods leading to injuries for top players.
  • A need for a more streamlined calendar to boost fan engagement.

He argues that “less is more” and suggests shortening elite tournaments to eight or nine days.

Raducanu’s Coaching Carousel and Laver Cup Role

After firing Richardson in 2021, Raducanu rehired him this summer. Henman, who advised her during her US Open triumph, hopes the reunion will restore consistency:

  • 2021 US Open: Raducanu wins as a qualifier, becoming the first to do so.
  • 2024 Queen’s Club final: She loses to Donna Vekic, signalling a resurgence but also highlighting lingering issues.
  • Laver Cup 2026: Raducanu serves as vice‑captain, a role Henman believes will add leadership experience.

Henman stresses Richardson’s deep understanding of Raducanu’s game, noting their friendship since her early teens.

Numbers Behind Raducanu’s Recent Performances

While exact earnings aren’t disclosed, recent statistics illustrate her form:

  • Current ranking: No 20 in the world (as of June 2026).
  • 2025‑26 season win‑loss record: 12‑8.
  • Average first‑serve percentage: 63% (up from 58% in 2024).

These metrics suggest modest improvement but also underline the need for greater physical durability.

Broader Implications for British Tennis Development

Henman draws parallels between his own early‑career hardships—sharing rooms in Earl’s Court and leaving school at 16—and the modern pathway for British talent. He points to two key areas:

  • Investment in grassroots facilities beyond elite clubs.
  • Mentorship programs linking former pros with emerging players like Jack Draper, who is battling injuries.

Henman warns that without calendar reform, injuries like Draper’s knee bruise could derail the next generation.

Looking Ahead: What the Next Season Could Hold

Henman remains cautiously optimistic. He believes Raducanu can add another Grand Slam if she builds “physical resilience, match count, and durability.” For British men’s tennis, he urges patience and better health management, noting that “if you’re not healthy, you can’t compete.” The upcoming Wimbledon will be a litmus test for both Raducanu’s comeback and Draper’s recovery.