Is coaching allowed during a tennis match?
A · Advanced · Time, coaching, officials and line calls · 6 of 7It depends on the event. The rules let the body running an event permit coaching from off the court. Where it is allowed, it happens between points and at changes of ends and set breaks, by a few words when coach and player are at the same end or by hand signals, and never during a point.
How it works
- Coaching is advice or instruction of any kind, by any means.
- Off-court coaching: allowed only if the sanctioning body permits it.
- On-court coaching: only in team events, by a captain sitting on court.
- When permitted: between points, at changes of ends and set breaks, not during a point.
- Between points it must be brief and discreet: spoken only when coach and player are at the same end, or by hand signals.
- Players may look at approved analysis technology at times when coaching is allowed.
Tricky cases
Can a coach shout advice across the court?
No. Spoken coaching between points is for when coach and player are at the same end. Otherwise it is hand signals.
Can a player use a tablet or wearable during a match?
Only approved player analysis technology, and only at times when coaching is permitted.
Why the rule exists
Tennis was long played as a contest the player solves alone. The rules now let events relax that, while keeping the point itself free of outside help.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Events that permit coaching | As above | L30; App IV |
| Events that do not | No coaching | L30 |
| Team events | A captain on court may coach | L30 |
From the rule book
ITF Rules of Tennis 2026, Rules 30 and 31 and Appendices III and IV. Checked 13 October 2026. Official document: ITF Rules of Tennis (PDF).