Marc Lopez, Paolini’s Coach: "I Want to Prove to Myself That I Can’t Just Coach Rafa"

Jasmine Paolini has decided to hire Marc Lopez as her coach for the clay season. The former world No. 3 in doubles, who previously coached Rafael Nadal, has accepted the challenge.

He explains the reason: "Being with Rafa gave me incredible feelings, but this project is perhaps more ‘mine,’ with someone I don’t know.

It’s a new challenge and a new responsibility, working with a Top 10 player to prove to myself whether I’m truly a good coach.

When I stopped playing tennis (in 2022), my first offer as a coach was to be part of Rafa Nadal’s team—imagine my luck. I was with him for three years, until the end of his tennis career.

After that, I spent three months at home, until the opportunity came to work with a Top 10 player, a super joyful girl who only brings me positive energy.

I feel lucky to have these opportunities. I want to take advantage of them and prove to myself that I can’t just coach Rafa.

I know Jasmine is already at the top, but I want to work to improve her so she can stay there."