Novak Djokovic, the 23-time Grand Slam champion, has shared his support for on-court coaching during US Open, calling it a welcome change that benefits players and fans alike. Following his impressive victory in the second round of the 2023 US Open, Djokovic emphasized the positive impact of this rule change.
He said, “I’m happy that we are able to freely communicate rather than hiding from a chair umpire like we did for years.” He said that even with coaching, players must execute their strategies and decisions themselves on the court as it is an individual sport, highlighting that there is no substitution for individual performance.
When asked about critics who argue that on-court coaching diminishes the individual nature of tennis, Djokovic responded, “I understand that there are some opponents of this coaching rule that are saying, ‘Yeah, you are a tennis player, individual athlete, so you have to figure things by yourself.'”
Ok the debate is over. Novak supports on-court coaching. #USOpen pic.twitter.com/H5UiShfa6T
— दिविर जैन (@divirj04) August 30, 2023
However, addressing critics who argue that tennis is an individual sport, Djokovic countered them by saying even if the coach comes in during a set break, there is no substitution, as the player must perform on the court by himself.
When asked about comparisons with other sports like basketball, Djokovic pointed out the differences. He stated, “It’s different in basketball because you can go to your coach or bench anytime. We have to sometimes raise our voice due to the noise on the tennis court. It’s not comparable.”
Overall, Djokovic conveyed his contentment with the new regulations, highlighting the difference from earlier times when players were compelled to conceal their discussions from umpires.
Novak Djokovic recommends further refinement in on-court coaching
On-court coaching in tennis has evolved over the years, with players and officials continually fine-tuning the rules to strike the right balance between player independence and strategic guidance. Novak Djokovic, the tennis legend has recently weighed in on this topic, offering suggestions for further improvements.
The rules governing on-court coaching have seen significant changes in recent times. The ATP made a crucial decision in July 2022 to allow coaches and players to communicate during matches using hand signals and verbal exchanges. This rule permits such communication during the time between points, but it applies only when the player is on the side of the court where the coach is seated.
🎙️Novak Djokovic:
“I’m actually supportive of the on-court coaching or headset communication, whatever ways of getting more coaching. I think it’s good. I think it’s good for the audience. It’s good for player.”#USOpen #ATP #Tennis @NovakFanClub @NDjokofan @DjokerSA @DjokovicUk pic.twitter.com/vc5EQ6Epeq— CGTN Sports Scene (@CGTNSportsScene) August 31, 2023
In addition to supporting on-court coaching, Djokovic recently suggested introducing “headset communication” to make coaching even more accessible through tech gadgets. He said, “I am supportive of on-court coaching or headset communication. Whatever ways of getting more coaching, I think it’s good for the audience. Good for the players.”
Djokovic’s endorsement of on-court coaching and innovative communication methods reflects his belief that these changes can enhance the overall tennis experience for both players and fans. His journey at the 2023 US Open continues, with an upcoming match against fellow Serbian, Laslo Djere in the third round.