9 Oct 2008

World First For 2009 ASB Classic

8:07 am on 9 October 2008

The ASB Classic in January will be the first tennis tournament in the world to have on-court coaching.

The WTA board approved the move with strong support from broadcasters, sponsors and tournaments and majority support from the Players' Council.

Players can ask for their coach once per set, and coaches called on court will have to wear a microphone to capture the conversation for listeners or viewers.

The move has been tested over the past two years and tournament director, Brenda Perry says it'll add something to the tournament and create even greater intrigue.

She's expecting to announce some top players by next week, with a mix of new faces and familiar favourites, including the New Zealand number one Marina Erakovic, who's certain of a main draw position.