ITF's New Off-Court Coaching Rule Faces Criticism from Tennis Stars

The International Tennis Federation's decision to allow off-court coaching from 2025 has sparked debate over its impact on the sport's strategic integrity.

• The ITF announced that off-court coaching will be permitted starting January 2025, aiming to make tennis fairer and more entertaining.
• World No. 6 Taylor Fritz and former World No. 10 Denis Shapovalov have publicly criticized the rule change, arguing it undermines the game's mental and strategic elements.
• The decision follows trials in Grand Slam events and tours since 2023, where off-court coaching was tested.
• ITF Executive Director Stuart Miller stated that the rule change was made after consultations with players, coaches, and umpires who largely viewed it as a positive development.
• The new rule allows verbal and gestural coaching except during points, and permits the use of approved player analysis technology during matches.

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