The Italian Open 2026 has already delivered its share of surprises on the court, but one of the most unexpected stories of the tournament came away from competitive action. World number one Iga Swiatek revealed that her newly appointed coach Francisco Roig suffered a torn Achilles tendon during a promotional practice session in Rome, turning what was meant to be a lighthearted exhibition into a painful and dramatic incident.
Swiatek shared the details after battling past American Caty McNally in a hard fought opening round match at the Foro Italico. The Polish star explained that the injury occurred during a fun volley challenge between her and Roig in Rome’s famous Piazza del Popolo, where players often participate in public events to promote the Italian Open. What began as a casual game with a small wager quickly took an unfortunate turn.
According to Swiatek, there was a 100 euro bet on the line during the volley contest and she was on match point when Roig suddenly went down with the injury. “He did a split step and tore his Achilles. It happened on Saturday. On Tuesday he had surgery already in Warsaw. We kind of took care of him,” Swiatek said after her victory.
Despite the seriousness of the injury, Swiatek admitted that neither she nor others nearby initially realised how severe the situation was because of the coach’s calm reaction. “I don’t think people noticed how serious it was because he was so brave in the moment,” she said. “I would burst out crying. I would make such a drama. His face was like normal. I thought he was joking at the beginning. My hitting partner thought he was joking as well.”
Roig, who previously worked with Spanish legend Rafael Nadal for several years, recently joined Swiatek’s coaching setup after the Polish star ended her partnership with Belgian coach Wim Fissette earlier this season. The experienced Spaniard has long been regarded as one of the most respected figures in tennis coaching, having played a key role during Nadal’s dominance on clay courts.
Swiatek’s collaboration with Roig was seen as a significant addition ahead of the clay court season and the French Open, where she will once again enter as the favourite. The 24 year old has already won four Roland Garros titles and is also a three time champion in Rome, making the current stretch one of the most important phases of her season. Although the injury means Roig cannot physically participate fully during training sessions, Swiatek maintained an optimistic outlook regarding their working relationship. “He basically just missed one practice,” she said. “It’s not easy right now in the practices because he can’t be next to me. But we’ll make it work.”
The incident has also highlighted the demanding physical nature of tennis, not only for players but for coaches and support staff as well. Achilles tendon injuries are among the most serious lower leg injuries in sport and often require surgery followed by several months of rehabilitation. Former athletes and sports medicine experts frequently describe recovery from such injuries as lengthy and physically challenging, especially for older individuals involved in high intensity movement.
For Swiatek, the unusual situation has added another unexpected subplot to her Rome campaign. The Polish star has been under pressure in recent months after facing tougher competition on tour and dealing with increasing expectations as world number one. However, she remains one of the strongest performers on clay and continues to be viewed as the leading contender heading into the French Open later this month.
Her opening match against Caty McNally also demonstrated her resilience. Swiatek needed three sets to overcome the American after a challenging battle, showing signs that she is still adjusting to recent changes within her coaching team. Yet her composure under pressure once again stood out as she managed to navigate a difficult contest successfully.
The injury to Roig may not directly affect Swiatek’s preparation in a technical sense, but it certainly adds an emotional dimension to the early days of their partnership. Still, Swiatek dismissed suggestions that the incident had strengthened their bond in any unusual way. “We had a good relationship from the beginning,” she said. “Didn’t need any health issues for that.”
As the Italian Open continues and attention gradually shifts toward Roland Garros, Swiatek will hope that both she and her coach can quickly move past the unexpected setback. While Roig begins his recovery journey after surgery in Warsaw, Swiatek remains focused on defending her dominance on clay and adding yet another major title to her already remarkable career.
