The New Era of In-Game Coaching: A Revolution in Tennis

Big Changes Coming in 2025
Starting January 1, 2025, coaching of professional players will officially be authorized from the stands. While some, like Jannik Sinner, claim that this change won't have a significant impact, I see it differently. In fact, I believe this shift represents nothing less than a revolution in tennis.

The role of the coach during matches — and in modern tennis as a whole — is rapidly evolving. This change is shaking up the very foundations of the sport, and I think it’s fantastic news. We’re only at the dawn of this "in-game coaching" era, but mark my words: in the next six or seven years, the role of the coach will become just as important as that of the player — if not more so.

This evolution may be why certain players, like Taylor Fritz and Denis Shapovalov, have voiced their concerns. It’s understandable. Perhaps they feel like they’re losing some control, or maybe they see it as giving up part of the "pie" to coaches. But as tennis continues to evolve in terms of physical preparation, mental coaching, nutrition, and all the support systems surrounding a player, it’s clear that the coach is no longer just a background figure. The coach is becoming the leader of the team and, with in-game coaching, the leader of the game itself.

The Role of the Coach: Then vs. Now
Twenty years ago, did you see coaches on TV during a match? Absolutely not. But today, they’re everywhere. Camera shots of the player’s box are now a staple of tennis broadcasts. After every single point, players glance towards their coaches for feedback, reassurance, or strategy adjustments. The dynamic has shifted. In many ways, the player and the coach are now a single entity, working together toward a shared goal.

This shift makes it all the more surprising that Toni Nadal, one of the greatest coaches in tennis history, was barely mentioned during Rafael Nadal’s farewell ceremony. The same could be said for Pierre Paganini’s role in Roger Federer’s success or Brad Gilbert’s legendary guidance of Andre Agassi. Without these coaches, would these players have achieved the same level of greatness?

It’s unlikely. A coach does much more than refine technique. They guide the player’s career path, set priorities, establish work-rest schedules, and create tactical plans for each opponent. Coaches also provide moral support, helping players overcome mental hurdles during the toughest matches. They’re family, confidants, and sometimes the only person the player can fully trust on tour. It's no coincidence that family-coach duos like the Williams sisters, Alexander Zverev, Andy Murray, Stefanos Tsitsipas, and Ben Shelton have achieved remarkable success.

The Mechanics of In-Game Coaching
For now, in-game coaching is still in its infancy. It’s a bit confusing, with ambiguous rules on how it can be used. Coaches can only communicate with players using short, simple words (not full sentences) and only when the player is on their side of the court. As a result, it’s true that the impact has been limited so far, and I’ll admit that, for now, Sinner’s point is valid.

But what about tomorrow?
What happens when coaches learn to master this new form of communication? What if, in a few years, players start wearing earpieces to receive constant guidance from their coaches during matches? Imagine coaches sitting on the bench like in football or basketball. It’s not so far-fetched.

Once this tool is mastered, the impact will be enormous. Players will have more mental clarity and be able to focus solely on execution. The coach’s role will evolve from "game preparer" to "game manager," guiding strategy in real-time. The result will be faster adjustments, smarter tactics, and potentially more thrilling matches.

What This Means for Tennis
Love it or hate it, in-game coaching is here to stay. The sooner we embrace it, the better. If we’re going to allow it, we should fully authorize and control it. After all, inconsistency breeds controversy. Just think back to Serena Williams’ infamous 2018 US Open final against Naomi Osaka. She was penalized a game after being accused of receiving coaching from Patrick Mouratoglou. Ironically, just one year later, coaching was allowed in the women’s game. Coincidence? Probably not.

The "gray area" around in-game coaching has caused frustration for players, coaches, and fans alike. If we’re going to introduce it, let’s do it right. Let’s create clear guidelines, consistent enforcement, and an open embrace of how it can enhance the game.

Final Thoughts
The world of tennis is evolving. Coaching is no longer just something that happens off-court during training sessions. It’s becoming a fundamental part of what happens during the match itself. Coaches aren’t just behind the scenes anymore — they’re front and center. They’re family, they’re guides, and they’re the leaders of the modern tennis experience.

We’re at the start of this "in-game coaching" era. It’s an era that will undoubtedly change the sport as we know it. Over the next few years, I expect the relationship between players and coaches to grow stronger, more transparent, and more strategic. Players will become smarter. Coaches will become indispensable.

So, what’s your take on in-game coaching? Do you think it’s a step forward for the sport, or do you prefer the "player only" approach of the past? Drop your thoughts in the comments below — I’d love to hear your perspective.

Stay inspired, stay passionate, and I’ll see you on the court.
Cedde