ATP has announced a new approach known as .coaching, allowing coaches to give direct instructions to players from the sidelines during a match. This marks a notable shift in how on-court guidance is perceived and delivered in professional tennis.
The plan will be piloted in the latter portion of the current season. If the trial proves successful, the format could be adopted more broadly on the tour, following the precedent set in several seasons of women’s tennis where coaching during matches is a familiar practice.
The experimental phase is slated to begin in the week starting July 11 and, depending on outcomes, could extend through the remainder of the year including the US Open and the ATP Finals in November. During this period, coaches will be permitted to advise tennis players from the coaching seats, both in the early rounds of tournaments and in the later stages of events that determine the draw and the title.
Until now, players could face penalties for official instructions from the sidelines. If referees determined that communication was overt, penalties could be imposed on the player for the fault, a rule that has historically limited coach input in live play.
In the realm of women’s tennis, coaching from the box has been a common feature for several seasons. It’s common to observe coaches signaling instructions during changeovers as players rest between games, applying a verbal or visual cue to guide tactics and strategy.
For the ATP, the introduction of on-court coaching is seen as a potential advantage for players and fans alike. The governing body describes the testing phase as a way to heighten suspense and create a more intimate, engaging atmosphere for spectators as the action unfolds on court.
Coaching is allowed under the following conditions:
– Coaches must remain in the designated seats assigned by the tournament. Coaching, whether verbal or nonverbal, is permitted only if it does not disrupt play or distract the opponent during point scoring.
– Verbal coaching is allowed only when the player and coach share the same side of the court.
– Nonverbal coaching, including hand signals, is always permitted.
– Verbal coaching may consist of a brief set of words or short phrases and should avoid prolonged commentary during points.
– Coaches must not attempt to communicate with their players when they leave the court for any reason during a match.
– Sanctions and fines will apply in cases of abuse or violation of these rules, ensuring fair play and maintaining the integrity of the match environment.
The pilot phase will be evaluated collectively at the end of the season to decide whether on-track coaching should be retained, modified, or expanded in future campaigns.