What coaches have been saying privately about the new player boxes at the Australian Open as problem emerges

Player boxes have become a big talking point at the Australian Open, with coaches able to sit courtside at Rod Laver Arena.

Novak Djokovic likes the Australian Open coaching box, although Aryna Sabalenka wants more seats courtside.

Both players have progressed into the third round of the first Grand Slam of 2025, which is currently underway in Melbourne.

Coaches can now get advice from their respective team members during matches, with Andy Murray among those advising Djokovic at the Australian Open.

The introduction of such boxes is certain to continue being under the microscope as the competition progresses, both positively and negatively.

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Coaches can’t see Australian Open action well in player boxes

Notably, a view from the coaching side has now emerged, with former British number one Laura Robson highlighting an issue they have been having in Melbourne.

“I feel like there are still a few kinks to sort out,” she said on Eurosport. “Some of the coaches have been telling me that they actually can’t see that well because of all the media seats and photographers in the middle section, they are craning their necks trying to get a good look at the other side.

“But it is so handy for the players to walk right up in a towel box. You are not scared about having a conversation because there are no mics down there.

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“They have been trying this thing to get the coaches to chat on a microphone during a warm up to the commentators, so that’s what I would like to see more of.

“There are so many interesting things they are saying during a match, but we want to hear the tactics beforehand.

“I feel like it is just the beginning and it’s going to get bigger and bigger the more tournaments sign up for it.”

Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray make use of Australian Open player box

As the first Grand Slam of the season, the Australian Open is perhaps playing the role of guinea pig for the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open.

Many of its rules and regulations are coming under the spotlight this month, with not everyone left pleased with the tournament organisers so far.

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But star names such as Djokovic have been heavily reliant on the coaching boxes, with the Serbian constantly in discussion with his new coach Murray.

Perhaps positioning will be analysed for future tournaments, and indeed just how many team members will be allowed to sit there.

Murray will undoubtedly be delighted to be so close to the action, having only just retired from tennis in August, although Stefanos Tsitsipas isn’t a massive fan.

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