The 30th edition of the Hopman Cup could see the introduction of a series of new rules such as coaching during matches, according to Tennis Australia chief Craig Tiley.
During a recent conference at the WestBusiness Leadership Matters event in Perth, Tiley confirmed that he is keeping an open mind about the new changes. Which would see the introduction of a shot clock on court for players to monitor their time between points and for coaching to occur at changeovers.
Both new rules are set to be implemented in January at the Australian Open. They will only be used in the in the qualifying draws. The clock will be displayed on the screen for players to make sure they keep within the 25-second limit between points.
“What we’re introducing in January is an innovative change,” Tiley said.
“Within 25 seconds the player has to start the next point. We are now visibly showing the rules.“Previously the umpire used to control it, but now it’s controlled by a clock. Coaching was barred and you got penalised for it but now we’re opening up and say you can do it.”
Earlier in the year, the US Open was the first major to implement the two new rules in their qualifying draws. More recently it was also trailed at the inaugural Next Gen finals in Milan. At the Milan tournament, a total of seven new rules was tested with some players approving of the changes.
“I think the shot clock is a good thing.” World No.4 Alexander Zverev said last month.
Borna Coric played in the Milan tournament and was a vocal critic of having a timer on the court. Arguing that it placed him under extra pressure and made him feel more tired after matches.
“I just don’t like that pressure.” Stated Coric. “I mean, it’s also good in some ways, because it does speed up the game. But I just need to get used to that so that maybe I can start my whole motion with seven or eight seconds left, not on maybe 15.”
Despite the mixed response, Tiley confirms that he is continuing to look into new ‘opportunities’ with both the ATP and WTA. There is yet to be any formal confirmation if the Hopman Cup will see the introduction of the new rules. The tournament will get underway on December 30th.
“We are looking at what other opportunities exist, leaving an open mind about it beyond that. It’s in partnership with the ATP and the WTA, so we are dealing with that now.” Tiley explained.
The Hopman Cup is a mixed tournament featuring two players per team. France’s Kristina Mladenovic and Richard Gasquet are the current champions of the event.
