Melbourne, Australia – The Australian Open 2025 has introduced coaching pods at court level, sparking debate among players and fans about the potential shift in tennis dynamics. Traditionally a sport emphasizing player independence, the new feature allows coaching teams to communicate more closely with players during matches.
Tennis legend Novak Djokovic, a ten-time Australian Open champion, welcomed the innovation but emphasized the importance of maintaining discretion in on-court coaching exchanges.
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“I think it’s a great new introduction to the tournament,” Djokovic said after his second-round victory over Portugal’s Jaime Faria. “The people who are there are selected by us internally in the team. We talk about who we think can contribute the most by being on the court. I’m happy with the four people that I have sitting there.”
Call for Privacy in Coaching Communication
While expressing his support for the initiative, Djokovic raised concerns about the potential misuse of coaching information.
“It probably will change in the future with the microphone and everything, but I’m happy as it is at the moment,” he noted. “I understand the fun part and stuff going viral because there will be quite a bit of material.”
However, Djokovic, who recently added British great Andy Murray to his coaching staff, stressed the need for privacy in tactical discussions.
“The only thing I dislike is the fact that someone from your opponent’s team might be watching the match, and they hear that and then text their team member. Ten seconds later, you have the information,” he explained.
Djokovic further elaborated, “I feel there should be some discretion and privacy in terms of the actual on-court coaching tactics. That shouldn’t be public because it could endanger you during matches.”
On-Court Progress and Pursuit of Record 25th Grand Slam Title
Djokovic’s stance on coaching privacy comes as he advances confidently in the tournament. The 24-time Grand Slam champion defeated American Nishesh Basavaraddey in the opening round and Portugal’s Jaime Faria in the second. Up next, he faces Czech player Tomas Machac in the third round on Friday as he pursues an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam singles title.
As the debate over coaching pods continues, Djokovic remains focused on his game while advocating for innovations that respect the competitive integrity of the sport.
