There are not many players on the planet who, when suffering a tough run of form, can turn to Rafael Nadal.
Alas, that is what Iga Swiatek has earned, as one of the most famous graduates from the Spaniard’s academy, and one of the sport’s most dominant clay-court players in recent years.
However, times have been tough for the former world number one of late, and her start to the 2026 season has only contributed to these struggles.
The hope is that by seeking the wisdom of Rafael Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, she can recapture her form and become a dominant force on the WTA Tour once again.
Danielle Collins certainly thinks that could be the case.
Danielle Collins reacts to Iga Swiatek seeking Rafael Nadal’s help
Speaking on Tennis Channel, after watching footage of Swiatek training with Nadal, the American was asked to name the tennis idol she’d have loved to practice with.
Collins admitted: “I mean, Rafa would be up there. You know, who knows? Maybe Iga will invite me out to Spain, and we can do, like, a little training block together. That’d be so fun.
How many Grand Slam titles will Iga Swiatek win with Francisco Roig as her coach?
She's signed one of the best coaches on tour!
“But no, I think if I had an idol, I think I would probably go with, I mean, I love Rafa, but I got to say Jimmy Connors, because Jimmy Connors and I kind of have a similar game. We’re both fiery personalities. I feel like he has the experience and the expertise to deal with a personality like me.
“And I think, aside from that, we would have a ton of fun off the court, and it would just be good memories both on and off the court.”
Then, discussing Swiatek’s appointment of Francisco Roig as her new coach, Collins added: “Yeah, and I think when you’ve had the success that Iga Swiatek has had, especially at a young age, and all the Grand Slams, all of the impressive feats on her resume, the only person that you can work with at this point is somebody that’s been at the highest, highest, highest level because you’ve been at that level.
“So it’s going to be scary for everybody on tour to see what’s next for Iga Swiatek with this new coaching partnership.”
Rafael Nadal’s message to Iga Swiatek after training together
Although only brief, Nadal was keen to welcome Iga Swiatek back to his academy, and posted a public message to her after training together.
He simply wrote: “[Iga Swiatek] welcome back to the Rafa Nadal Academy!
Does Iga Swiatek now win the French Open after changing coaches? 🤔
Let us know your reasoning in the comments ⬇️
“Enjoy your time here! We hope you feel at home.”
Naturally, she always feels at home on the clay, and particularly in a setting where she has become very familiar.
It will be intriguing to see the impact their training session has on Swiatek’s efforts, as she starts her clay-court season at the Stuttgart Open.
