Australian Open launches courtside coaching pods: "Coaches should have a bigger profile in the narrative"

The Australian Open has unveiled new coaching pods at court corners, allowing coaches to choose between sitting courtside or remaining in their usual spot in the stands. The innovation was introduced by tournament director Craig Tiley.

These pods not only offer a prime seating view but also permit coaches to interact with players between points—provided they are on the same side of the court. Additionally, coaches can access real-time data and statistics via screens inside the pods.

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“We tested it this week, and some coaches were a bit sceptical at first, but then they sat down and said: ‘This is great,’” Tiley told The Age. “I think we’re going to find that the majority will actually sit courtside. You have a great sight line of your player after every point.”

“When players come for their towels, you can talk to them, so you’re almost, in effect, able to coach your player after each point, if you want to,” he added.

Tiley highlighted that the pods could give coaches a more prominent role, despite differing opinions on in-match coaching. “There are very different views in our sport on whether coaches should be allowed on court or not.”

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“I’ve been an advocate for allowing coaches on court because it adds to the story and the show. Every other sport has it,” Tiley stated.

“As a former coach, I believe coaches should have a bigger profile in the narrative of the event and their relationship with players,” Tiley added. “We think these pods will create bigger stories, a more interesting narrative, and raise coaches’ profiles. There's a good chance we’ll see some pretty interesting things happen down there.”

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