The introduction of on-court “coaching pods” at the Australian Open has drawn mixed reactions from players and fans across the tennis world.

The “pods” are positioned in the corner of each pitch and can accommodate up to four staff members, with access to their players’ real-time data and convenient cooling capabilities.

Coaches were given the option of sitting in the new podiums on the sidelines or continuing to sit in their usual spots.

Two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka admitted it will take some time to get used to the new groups as she prepares to scour the venue for members of her support group.

“Honestly, I’m not a big fan of that decision,” she said after defeating Sloane Stephens in straight sets.

“Personally, for example, I like to see the whole team. I want to see the whole (group) in my box.”

“Even though I don’t look at every person in my box, I always look at my coach, but I still see everyone. For me that’s important.”

“For example, sometimes I just want to look at my friend for support. I just didn’t want to look at my coach first and then look in the (other) box because I have a lot of coaches.”

“Four seats aren’t enough,” she laughed.

“If they could get it to eight seats it would be a lot better for me.

“We decided to put everyone in the box. Maybe they were a little tight and uncomfortable there, but I felt comfortable seeing them all (smiling).”