Andy Murray You can take advantage of the new test in Australian Openwhich could see him sitting in a special ‘pod’ instead of inside Novak Djokovic’s Box in Melbourne.
Murray sensationally tied with the 24-time Grand Slam champion for the year’s opening major and supporters were hoping he would sit in Djokovic’s box where the pair could communicate between points.
Instead, the Grand Slam is adopting a new pod similar to that used in the United Cup, which is available for coaches to use to maximize the amount of information they receive.
Two pods that can fit up to four people per player will be placed in the corner of each of the three main show courts, it is believed that the performances will be for staff and coaches. However, the new change is not mandatory for any support staff member.
Inside the pod, coaches can access real-time data and statistics from a screen, while the room is fitted with a cooling system to combat the Melbourne heat.
Australian Open Director Craig Tilley announced the pod following a rule change that will now allow players to speak to their coaches while on the same side of the court, increasing the ability to provide up-to-date information.
“We tested it this week, and some trainers were a little skeptical at first, but then they sat down and said, ‘This is great’,” Tilley said. age to,
“I think we’re actually going to find much more than the majority that sits on the court. After each point you have a great sight line to your player.
“When they come and get their towel, you can talk to them, so if you want, you’re almost able to coach your player after each point, actually.
“There are very different views in our sport on whether coaches should be allowed on the court or not. “I’ve been a proponent of coaches being allowed on the court, just because it adds to the whole story, the whole show, and every other game.”
As part of Tilley’s incentives, coaches like Murray are set to be given a bigger platform, while also being given a concierge desk, larger lounge and the same medical and data access as players. Australian Open,
It remains to be seen how Murray is His first tournament with Djokovic as coachHe is more influential if he takes center stage and behind the scenes in a pod or backseat approach.
But he has an opportunity to get very up close and personal with his Serbian star, starting with his first-round clash with Nishesh Basavareddy.
