Taylor Fritz, Denis Shapovalov react to off-court coaching rule in tennis: 'Why are you trying to change the beauty of the game'

ATP, WTA to welcome new changes from 2025 season.

Taylor Fritz and Denis Shapovalov have given their verdict on the soon to be made changes in the tennis world. Both players have bashed the off-court coaching rule which is set to start from the 2025 season. It has not been welcomed by several fans and players from around the world. The controversial rule is set to play a huge influence on the players.

Fritz and Shapovalov have openly opposed the off-court coaching rule. The American on X said,’ Can we stop ruining the 1v1 mental/strategic aspect of the sport PLEASE.’ He was not happy about the announcement and was joined by Shapovalov who is also against the latest rule. The Canadian shared that he was disappointed to hear the decision.

Can we stop ruining the 1v1 mental/strategic aspect of the sport PLEASE https://t.co/bXVQFl0Fj9

— Taylor Fritz (@Taylor_Fritz97) October 21, 2024

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

He said on X, ‘Tennis is special because you are out there alone. Why are you trying to change the beauty of this game.’ Shapovalov had earlier replied with a GIF of Ryan Renolds asking ‘But why’ to an ITF announcement post regarding the off-coaching rule.

The off-coaching rule has not received a positive response from the fans and players. Whether the rule will last or not can only be confirmed once it has been used during the matches.

Also Read: Nick Kyrgios, Denis Shapovalov lambast decision to not ban Jannik Sinner despite failed dope test

What is the off-court coaching rule as announced by ITF?

The off-court coaching rule in tennis has been experimented in a few exhibition events. In events such as UTS and Laver Cup, players have received coaching during the break. The ITTF had recently announced that off-court coaching will be allowed on the tour from the 2025 season. Players can now legally receive coaching tips from their coaches during the matches.

However it is upto the sanctioning body or the event organisers to permit the off-coaching rule. Players can have verbal exchanges or hand signals with their coach during the end of a set or during breaks. Players can also use, if permitted, ‘players analysis technology’ during coaching.

Team events such as the Davis Cup had already been using this rule where players actively interact and receive tips from their captains. But now these could be seen in grand slams if the organisers allow it. 

This will have a huge impact on the sport especially in tense situations of the matches. Players can maintain contact with their coach for help as it can come in handy for the opposition too. Although there have been critics of this rule, a succesful camapaign will ensure its longetivity in the grand slams and other top tier events.

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