(Reuters) – Select doubles teams will wear microphones in competitive matches for the first time at this week’s Washington Open as part of a trial to enhance the fan experience, the governing body of men’s tennis (ATP) said.
While players commonly wear microphones at exhibition events, the trial will give fans an insight into discussions about tactics in tournament play, offering a similar experience to hearing NBA players in a huddle and Formula One drivers talk to engineers.
The conversations will also be made available on the ATP’s digital channels during the July 29-Aug. 4 event.
“The continuation of the 2024 ATP Doubles Trial with the introduction of player-worn microphones during competition is a transformative opportunity for players, fans and the sport as a whole,” ATP chief sporting officer Ross Hutchins said.
“This will provide fans live, never-before-seen insight into tactics players use during critical points of a match while also providing interesting glimpses into the lighter, funny moments of the action.”
Some of the other changes on trial at Washington include a maximum of 21 seconds between points, 60-second changeovers and free crowd movement on the sides of the court.
The ATP has also conducted trials for innovations to the doubles game at Madrid, London, Hamburg, Gstaad, Newport and Kitzbuehel this season.
(Reporting by Shrivathsa Sridhar in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
