Taylor Fritz Slams Off-Court Coaching Rule Changes in Tennis

Taylor Fritz criticizes the decision by tennis authorities to allow off-court coaching, arguing it undermines the sport's unique challenge. He suggests stricter enforcement could have maintained tennis's distinctiveness. The rule change comes after trials since 2023, affecting major tournaments.

Taylor Fritz has expressed strong reservations over the decision by tennis authorities to permit off-court coaching, noting it diminishes the sport's unique challenge. The International Tennis Federation's decision, set to take effect in 2025, follows trials conducted at the Grand Slams and other significant events since 2023.

Fritz, after winning his opening match at the ATP Finals against Daniil Medvedev, stated that the rule was introduced under pressure, as players often resorted to it regardless. He argued that coaching should be limited to general encouragement rather than strategic instruction.

To address the issue, Fritz suggested implementing microphones in coaching boxes to monitor interactions rigorously, promoting player autonomy and upholding tennis's traditional appeal. He will next face world number one Jannik Sinner in his group match.

(With inputs from agencies.)