Denis Shapovalov joins Taylor Fritz in criticising ATP’s new ‘off court’ coaching rule as it will effect the ‘beauty’ of tennis
Denis Shapovalov joins Taylor Fritz in criticizing the ITF's decision to allow off-court coaching in tennis from January 1, 2025.
Follow Us
Denis Shapovalov (Via Imago)
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) recently announced that off-court coaching will be allowed in tennis from January 1, 2025. The latest rule change has, however, sparked a negative reaction from American Taylor Fritz, hours after it was announced.
Canada’s star Denis Shapovalov has also criticized the rule, adding that the change will be detrimental to the sport The ITF revealed on Monday (October 21) that coaching from an off-court location will be permitted by players.
The rule also means that coaching is allowed at any time, except when a point is in play. Coaches can have verbal communication or hand signals with players during change of ends, break sets play between points, etc.
The rule also stipulated that coaching must be brief and discreet and that players and coach must be at the same end of the court before communicating. However, the new rule received criticism from Fritz, who said that it detracts from the mental and strategic elements that define the sport.
Can we stop ruining the 1v1 mental/strategic aspect of the sport PLEASE.
Taylor Fritz said on X
Can we stop ruining the 1v1 mental/strategic aspect of the sport PLEASE https://t.co/bXVQFl0Fj9
— Taylor Fritz (@Taylor_Fritz97) October 21, 2024
Shapovalov also echoed Fritz’s concerns about the latest coaching rule. The Canadian lamented that it would be erosion of what makes the sport unique.
Not just as a tennis player but as a fan of this sport it’s sad to see this new off court coaching rule. Tennis is special because you are out there alone. Why are you trying to change the beauty of this game.
Denis Shapovalov wrote on X
Not just as a tennis player but as a fan of this sport it’s sad to see this new off court coaching rule. Tennis is special because you are out there alone. Why are you trying to change the beauty of this game
— Denis Shapovalov (@denis_shapo) October 21, 2024
Taylor Fritz continues his distaste for latest ITF off-court coaching rule
The ITF’s decision to change the traditional coaching rule follows after a trial period from the 2023 season across all WTA and ATP tournaments, including Grand Slam events. It revealed that it aims to enhance fairness and entertainment value in the sport.
A fan on social media reacted to Taylor Fritz’s aforementioned criticism with the proof that the ITF revealed that the off-court coaching has been on trial for almost two years. The American replied that each time the tennis body says a rule is on trial, it also meant it was permanent.
I have a joke with my team that “trial basis” in ATP terms just means it’s a new permanent rule but call it a trial so people don’t freak out…. We been on this trial for 2 years I guess now, kinda proves my point.
Taylor Fritz said on X
I have a joke w my team that “trial basis” in ATP terms just means it’s a new permanent rule but call it a trial so people don’t freak out…. We been on this trial for 2 years I guess now, kinda proves my point
— Taylor Fritz (@Taylor_Fritz97) October 22, 2024
Tennis has always been a one-on-one battle between players. This rule could hamper the traditional style of the game and may generate a lot of controversy.
Stay Updated!
Victor Okechukwu
(719 Articles Published)