Francis Roig parts ways with Rafael Nadal’s team after long collaboration
After 18 years of collaboration, Francis Roig—who began his journey with Rafael Nadal under the guidance of his uncle Toni Nadal—has stepped away from the coaching setup that helped Nadal rise to world number one. Over the years, Roig worked alongside Toni Nadal, then Carlos Moyá, and most recently with Marc López joining the group. The squad celebrated with Olympic success, clinching a doubles gold at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, a milestone underscoring the depth and cohesion Roig helped foster within the team.
Roig expressed that serving as part of Nadal’s inner circle has been a genuine privilege and honor. He noted that the journey became almost longer and more fruitful than anyone anticipated, highlighting Nadal as a phenomenon whose influence made many predicted limits seem reachable. After careful reflection, Roig decided it was time to embark on a new professional project and to begin a fresh chapter in his coaching career.
The public message from Nadal confirmed Roig’s departure, reflecting the mutual respect that has characterized their relationship. Nadal acknowledged Roig as a pivotal figure from the early days of his ascent, recalling that the coach joined the team when the young player was still a budding talent. The statement conveyed sincere gratitude for the years of work and friendship, and it celebrated the shared memories and the ongoing camaraderie that will endure beyond this professional transition.
In a later note, Nadal celebrated the enduring friendship and the collective effort that shaped his career. He recognized the countless hours Roig and the team invested, and he celebrated the results achieved together, including milestones that elevated Nadal to legendary status in the sport. The tribute also emphasized that the bond among the teammates remains strong, and that weekends and training sessions will continue to be a source of enjoyment, even as Roig pursues his new path. The story of 22 Grand Slams and the many championships to date stands as a testament to the partnership that Roig helped build, reinforcing his reputation as a central figure in Nadal’s tennis journey.
Nadal’s appreciation of Roig
Throughout the years, Nadal consistently expressed gratitude for Roig’s contributions to his development and success. The Catalan coach was described as someone who had a deep understanding of tennis and a steadfast commitment to helping Nadal refine his craft. Nadal publicly thanked Roig for the guidance and friendship that accompanied the ascent through the professional ranks, wishing him luck as he began a new project. This moment underscored the human side of elite sport—where personal connections and shared ambitions leave a lasting imprint on a world-class athlete’s career.