The debate surrounding the new off-court coaching rule has sent spark waves into the tennis world. Some have favored the rule, while others have outright criticized it. The current no. 1,  Jannik Sinner was asked the same question. Currently gearing up for the Paris Masters, the Italian was asked to open up about the new changes that could potentially change the dynamics of the game. As usual for the Italian, he didn’t hold back from giving a bold response.

The ITF recently changed the rule to allow off-court coaching starting January 2025. This rule, announced after extensive trials on both ATP and WTA tours, sparked significant debate among players, fans, and experts. The ITF believes the new rule will make tennis “fairer and, potentially, more entertaining,” and create a more dynamic atmosphere.

When asked about the potential impact of off-court coaching, Sinner offered a measured response, noting he hasn’t fully reviewed the details yet. He questioned whether coaches would only be allowed to guide from the player’s box or join the players on the court. However, he suggested that the shift may not lead to dramatic changes, as many players are already accustomed to interpreting signals and suggestions from their coaches during matches.

“Yeah, I don’t think it will change like incredibly much. Even now they are just some coaches who still, you know, give some advice at some times. So, you know, I believe that this sport is still — as a player, you are alone in the court and trying to figure out alone what the situation is. But, you know, there are already, you know, some connections with the coach, and then you understand already what he’s talking about and what he’s suggesting already, so I don’t think it’s going to change incredibly much,” Sinner explained. He emphasized tennis remains a sport where players must rely on themselves to emerge victorious.

According to Sinner, off-court coaching might not introduce a “big, big change” some might expect. For players like him, years of association with their coaches allows them to grasp intended advice quickly, even from a distance and without a word. Thus, according to Sinner, this rule won’t make much of a difference. Sinner is not alone. Several legends of the game including the legendary Jimmy Connors didn’t shy away from sharing their true and bitter opinion of the change.

Jimmy Connors’ expresses strong disapproval of the new rule

Tennis icon Jimmy Connors expressed  his strong disapproval of the newly approved off-court coaching rule during his “Advantage Connors” podcast on October 25. Known for his staunch belief in player independence, Connors expressed his frustration with the rule. He suggested that players should be fully prepared before stepping onto the court, instead of relying on coaches mid-match. “You’re supposed to do all your hard work, all your grinding, all your listening…to your coaches before the matches,” Connors stated.

Reflecting on his own career, Connors shared a lesson from his mother and mentor, Gloria Connors. When he was 16, Gloria sent him to train with coach, Pancho Segura in Southern California. Connors shared a key lesson he learned during the training, “If you don’t have it down by now, you’re not going to get it in the next five minutes.” As per the 72-year-old, it’s essential to trust your training and instincts without seeking external input during a match.

Connors also criticized the modern trend of players frequently looking to their coaching box between points. “What are they looking for? Coaching? Help? Divine intervention?” he questioned, underscoring his belief that players have “way too much to do down there [on court]” to be distracted by their coaches. For Connors, the new coaching rule only adds unnecessary complexity, detracting from the true essence of tennis.

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