Jannik Sinner at odds with angry Taylor Fritz after ITF rule change

Jannik Sinner and Taylor Fritz have contrasting views on the ITF's decision to allow off-court coaching from next year onwards. Earlier this month, the governing body announced that off-court coaching will be permitted at all ATP, WTA and ITF events starting from January. The rule is likely to result in coaches getting more involved during matches, something which Fritz is not too happy about. He recently voiced his opposition on X, formerly Twitter, saying: "Can we stop ruining the 1v1 mental/strategic aspect of the sport PLEASE." Sinner, meanwhile, does not believe the new rule will shake things up too much because some coaches are already more vocal than others during matches. Stay up-to-date with the latest Tennis news Join us on WhatsApp Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy The reigning US Open champion was quizzed on the topic ahead of the Paris Masters and said: "I don't think it will change like incredibly much. Even now they are just some coaches who still, you know, give some advice at some times. "So, you know, I believe that this sport is still... As a player, you are alone in the court and trying to figure out alone what the situation is. "There are already, you know, some connections with the coach and then you understand already what he's talking about and what he's suggesting already, so I don't think it's going to change incredibly much." Sinner explained that players who have been working with their coaches for a long time will already be able to understand each other during matches, regardless of whether or not there are any restrictions. He added: "We haven't seen, like, a big, big change when there is no coaching, no? Because you watch the coach, you understand him already for years, and, you know, so you understand what's coming. Let's see, but I don't think it's going to be a big, big change." Under the new rules approved by the ITF, coaches will be allowed to issue advice either verbally or via hand signals at any time except during the playing of a point. Any mid-match coaching must be 'brief and discreet', except during breaks in play. Players will also be permitted to access approved 'player analysis technology' at times when coaching is allowed. During team events, the captain will be allowed to give coaching advice at the side of the court. After the changes were announced, ITF senior executive director Stuart Miller said: "We’ve gathered feedback from all key stakeholders including players, coaches and chair umpires. Players felt it was a positive development and makes tournaments more interesting for them."