The Association of Professional Tennis Players (ATP) announced on Tuesday that it will test “coaching” until the end of this season of the men’s professional tennis circuit. The measure will give players the chance to receive instructions from their respective coaches during games, something that was previously prohibited.

In a statement, the entity stated that this trial period will begin on July 11 and will last until the end of the year. Therefore, it will also be implemented during the US Open, the fourth Grand Slam of the year, and the Nitto ATP Finals, a contest that brings together the best eight tennis players of the season.

“In addition to ensuring consistency in the sport for the benefit of players and fans, this testing phase will also attempt to increase moments of intrigue and closeness to enhance the experience for viewers,” the ATP said.

It should be noted that since the beginning of 2020 in the WTA, the body that regulates the professional women’s tennis circuit, the coach is allowed to transmit gestural or verbal information.

The entity specified that “coaching” will be allowed under the following conditions:

Coaches must be seated in seats designated by the tournament

Coaching (verbal and non-verbal) is only allowed if it does not interrupt the game or create an inconvenience during the point to the opponent.

Verbal coaching is allowed only when the player is on the same side of the court.

Non-verbal coaching (hand signals) is allowed at any time.

Verbal coaching can consist of a few words and/or short phrases (conversations are not allowed).

Coaches must not speak to their players when they leave the field for any reason.

Sanctions and fines will be applied for the abuse or misuse of the previous conditions.