Svetlana Kuznetsova has hit out at former French Open champion Garbine Muguruza after accusing her of receiving coaching from the players’ box throughout their quarter-final match at Wimbledon.
The Russian lost to Muguruza in straight during what was their second meeting of the year. The controversy started when Kuznetsova’s coach, Carlos Martinez, was seen gesturing to the match umpire. According to witnesses, Martinez was complaining that a member of Muguruza’s camp was communicating tips directly to her. The Spaniard was never handed a warning from the umpire for illegal coaching.
“I could hear that (talking) because it was pretty clear because we all speak Spanish here.” Kuznetsova said after the match.
“She was talking to her all the time. But it’s her physio. I mean, I know she acts like this all the time. I know that.”
“I don’t think it’s appropriate, but it’s okay, I was focused on my game.” She added.
Unlike the WTA Tour, players are prohibited from receiving coaching during matches. Violation of the rule could result in a fine. In 2010 Rafael Nadal was reportedly fined £1300 for illegal coaching during his match against Philipp Petzschner.
It is unclear as to what the exact comments aimed towards Muguruza was. Although, the Russian world No.8 said her coach is certain that it was an element of coaching. Furthermore, Kuznetsova has publicly accused the umpire of double standards after she was previously punished for the same offense.
“My coach says it’s elements of coaching.” She stated.
“The same umpire gave my coach a warning last year for telling me, Vamos, vamos. Then this girl was talking to Garbine during the match. She didn’t say anything to her. That’s probably what surprise him a lot.”
23-year-old Muguruza has dismissed the allegations. Speaking in her press conference, she said that she ‘didn’t think they were coaching’ in reference to her team.
Time to introduce coaching in grand slam matches?
The controversy comes after the US Open declared that they will be trailing a new coaching rule during their qualifying tournament later this year. In a grand slam first, players will be allowed to seek advice from their mentors in the stands. Currently only the WTA Tour allows coaching in matches, but only during changeovers.
In the wake of the latest debate, Kuznetsova has supported the idea of allowing coaching in all major events.
“I don’t see why not. I think it’s great these coaches can work more their job. It’s more interesting to the fans. I don’t see why not.” She argued.
“I mean, I’m not here to complain, whatever they were doing on the court. Garbine played a very good game today. And I think she deserved to win, because I didn’t play so well.”
On the other hand, Kuznetsova’s Spanish rival has a somewhat more open-minded view about the idea.
“In some matches you feel some people are already coaching. I don’t know. I don’t know if that would maybe lose the essence. I don’t know what to tell you.” Muguruza replied when asked about the topic.
