MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray, two tennis legends, showcased an unprecedented dynamic during the Australian Open. Murray, now serving as Djokovic's coach, engaged in on-court coaching sessions with the 24-time major champion, a sight rarely seen in individual sports like tennis. This interaction was made possible by a new initiative at Melbourne Park's main stadiums, allowing up to four members of each player's entourage to sit in coaches' boxes positioned at court level, providing real-time data access and strategic guidance.
While in-match coaching was traditionally prohibited in elite tennis, recent rule changes by the International Tennis Federation have permitted coaching during matches. This shift has sparked debates within the tennis community regarding the impact of coaches on player performance and the essence of individual competition.
