Coach Unboxed EP13: Yannick chats with Bjorn Fratangelo, a former world #2 junior and top 100 ATP player, now coaching the newest Australian Open champion and once again top 10, Madison Keys. After a successful junior career winning the Roland Garros Boy’s title and Challenger tournaments at the pro level, Bjorn made the difficult decision to retire from playing due to an injury. Taking on a new tennis path by coaching his wife, Madison, he now finds himself in a position highly seasoned coaches still dream of: a Grand Slam champion.
They discuss Bjorn's family connection to tennis, the challenges he faced from very successful juniors to the professional circuit, and the importance of support systems in navigating his career. He reflects on his aspirations, the impact of his injury and how coaching became his new reality. Bjorn also talks about the dynamics with Madison and the full team, the work done before achieving peak performances and the need for a strong foundation in both personal and professional aspects of life to create more opportunities for success.
About Bjorn Fratangelo:From Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Bjorn started his tennis career early on being coached by his father. After moving to Florida to develop his game, Bjorn went on to become ITF world #2 and won the Roland Garros Boy’s Championship in 2011. His junior success led him to soon start his professional career and become a top 100 ATP player, winning four ATP Challenger titles and playing the main draw in all Grand Slams.
In 2023, Bjorn's struggles with a foot injury made him retire from his playing career. He then started helping out his wife and fellow pro player, Madison Keys, with her game after Roland Garros as she had recently split with her previous coach. Their long-lasting relationship off the court translated into a successful partnership on the court, together winning a few WTA titles and the 2025 Australian Open–Madison’s maiden Grand Slam–alongside a great team.
Follow Bjorn Fratangelo:on Instagram@bjornfrat and LinkedInBjorn Fratangelo.
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Production:Unbox Sports; Location:Embarc Collective;Music:BongÔMusics;Photo:ATP