‘Not a big fan’: Sabalenka speaks out against Australian Open innovation

Tournament boss Craig Tiley said the introduction of the pods coincided with coaches being allowed to speak to players when they are at the same end of the court.

“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 said before the Open.

“I think we’re going to find much more than the majority will actually sit on the court. You have a great sight line of your player after every point.”

Men’s No.2 Alexander Zverev took half-serious aim at the innovation, declaring his support team was too close for his liking.

“Yeah, I mean I hate it,” Zverev said in an on-court interview at Rod Laver Arena, before telling an extended joke about his family coaching arrangement.

The German’s father, Alexander Zverev Sr, and his brother, former tour player Mischa Zverev, were in his pod for his first-round victory over Frenchman Lucas Pouille.

“Basically I don’t want to see them too much in my life. It’s the way it is. I chose them as my coaches …. well, I didn’t really have a choice, to be honest.

“What am I going to say at Christmas dinner, ‘No, you’re not coming to Australia’, while their bags are packed already … I say, ‘You are not coming’? I can’t do that.”

“There’s innovation in all sports. Tennis is getting innovation as well. I’m not sure what sort of innovation that is,” he added.

Former finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas was in no mood discuss the proximity of his support team after crashing out in the first round on Monday.

“I hope they’re happy with the new change. I have more serious things to think about now than the pod,” Tsitsipas said after his four-set loss to Alex Michelsen.

Watch the Australian Open live & free on the 9Network & 9Now. Stan Sport is the only place to watch every match ad-free, live & on demand.

News, results and expert analysis from the weekend of sport are sent every Monday. Sign up for our Sport newsletter.