The introduction of coaching pods at the 2025 Australian Open has sparked a wave of mixed reactions among players. The International Tennis Federation's decision to allow off-court coaching from this year onward has led to the creation of specialized court-side coaching areas, situated right next to the players' towel boxes. This new arrangement provides coaches with the opportunity to offer real-time advice and support during matches, changing the dynamics of the sport. While some players embrace the innovation, others remain skeptical about its impact on the integrity and fairness of tennis.

At the Rod Laver Arena, Indian-origin player Nishesh Basavareddy found himself sharing the court with his idol, Novak Djokovic, whose coach is none other than former world No. 1 Andy Murray. The proximity of coaches to players has created an unusual atmosphere, as Basavareddy noted the surreal experience of hearing Murray cheering for Djokovic while fetching his towel. The Australian Open took the ITF’s rule change a step further by designing these pods to accommodate up to four members of a player’s team, complete with live footage and match statistics.

Murray's role as Djokovic's coach highlights the significant shift in how players receive guidance during matches. During Djokovic's four-set opener against Basavareddy, the Serbian star could consult Murray between sets, gaining valuable insights that might not have been possible before. Similarly, Jodie Anna Burrage benefited from her coaches' advice, improving her serve against Coco Gauff. The pods provide a more convenient and effective way for players to communicate with their teams, especially in large stadiums where hearing instructions from traditional seating areas can be challenging.

World No. 3 Coco Gauff expressed her preference for this format over previous attempts at on-court coaching, which she found awkward. However, not everyone shares her enthusiasm. World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and other top players have chosen to stick with the traditional seating area, while some lower-ranked players worry about the widening gap between those who can afford extensive coaching teams and those who cannot. The close positioning of the pods also raises concerns about potential confrontations, although Gauff believes respect on the court can mitigate such issues.

This innovative approach to coaching in tennis has certainly made waves at Melbourne Park. As players adjust to the new setup, it remains to be seen how this change will shape the future of the sport. The integration of technology and closer proximity between players and their coaches add a fresh dimension to matches, potentially enhancing both performance and spectator enjoyment. While the debate over its long-term effects continues, one thing is clear: the coaching pods are making a significant impact on the 2025 Australian Open.