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The latest tennis innovation - on-court coaching - will make its debut when the annual ASB Classic women's tournament is held in Auckland in January.
Under new competition regulations to be introduced on the WTA tour, players will be able to seek advice from coaches once per set, either on a changeover or at the end of a set.
A player may request her coach if her opponent is on a medical timeout, a change of attire stop or a toilet break.
Coaches called on court during televised matches will wear a microphone to capture the conversation for television viewers.
The WTA board approved the innovation when it met during the US Open last month.
It has been tested over the past two years at various WTA events.
"It's vital that tennis continues to evolve to be more fan, television and sponsor-friendly. This is a step outside the traditional tennis box," Classic tournament director Brenda Perry said yesterday.
Meanwhile, Perry hopes to confirm the involvement of a number of top quality players this month, with ideally at least one ranked inside the top 10.
Defending champion Lindsay Davenport, the 32-year-old former world No 1 from the United States, has opted not to return.
The Classic is scheduled for January 5-10.
- NZPA
