New Australian Open coaching pods get mixed reaction [Video]

The Australian Open has introduced court-side “coaching pods” at this year’s tournament in a Grand Slam first, but they have met with a mixed reaction.

The pods are positioned in two corners on each of the major courts with up to four people allowed, similar to the set-up at team events like the Davis Cup and United Cup.

They have access to real-time data on screens for statistical analysis, with coaches having the option to perch there or in their usual place in the traditional player box, where friends and family can also sit.

It follows the International Tennis Federation in October relaxing its rules, allowing coaches to communicate with players during matches as long as it is “brief” and “discreet”.

Australian Open chief Craig Tiley admitted that “some coaches were a bit sceptical at first” of the pods.

“But then they sat down and said: ‘This is great’,” he …