"It's a bunch of bulls**t" - John McEnroe slams new off-court coaching rule

John McEnroe recently slammed the new off-court which will come into action starting in 2025. The rule has had its fair share of critics including the likes of Roger Federer, Taylor Fritz and Denis Shapovalov.

The International Tennis Federation made the above announcement on October 17. This rule will allow coaching, which is considered to be any form of communication, advice or instruction, from an off-court location. It will be allowed between points, during changeovers, set breaks, and any other time except when the point is in play.

During his appearance on the Served with Andy Roddick podcast on December 17th, John McEnroe said that the key aspect that sets tennis players apart from other athletes is the individualistic nature of the sport.

"I think tennis athletes are some of the greatest athletes in any sport because not only do they have to be tremendous physical athletes but more importantly I believe the mentality that's needed when you are out there by yourself. Its something that very few sports can even relate to and I think that’s underestimated and underappreciated, like how difficult it is." (39:56 onwards)

Keeping this in mind, the American legend had strong opinions about the off-court coaching rule since it took away the individual problem-solving nature of tennis.

"I actually disagree with having coaching on the court and them yelling and going over, I think it's a bunch of bulls**t personally," he added.

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"It's frustrating to see us shoot ourselves in the foot" - John McEnroe on the off-court coaching rules

John McEnroe - Source: Getty

Continuing his thoughts, John McEnroe expressed his frustration with tennis not understanding what it needs to improve upon.

"It's just frustrating to see us shoot ourselves in the foot, but if people like that, I'm okay with it, too. I'm not like 'Oh my god, I can't work anymore', but I just don't know why the sport of tennis doesn't understand more of what it needs to do."

The seven-time Grand Slam champion is not the only player who has expressed such harsh criticism of the rule. American No. 1 Taylor Fritz criticized the rule during a press conference and also tweeted:

"Can we stop ruining the 1v1 mental/strategic aspect of the sport PLEASE"

Denis Shapovalov was of a similar opinion as he tweeted:

"Not just as a tennis player but as a fan of this sport it’s sad to see this new off court coaching rule. Tennis is special because you are out there alone. Why are you trying to change the beauty of this game."

A lot of fans also expressed their disdain over the announcement of the rule.