Hall of Fame tennis legend Maria Sharapova recently appeared on The David Rubenstein Show, where she discussed a range of topics from her competitive mindset to the evolution of modern tennis. One subject she addressed in particular was the growing presence of on-court coaching, a change she experienced only briefly toward the end of her career.

Sharapova reflected on how the sport has shifted from being a purely player-driven battle of strategy and instinct to a system where external input is now permitted mid-match.The five-time Grand Slam champion offered a measured perspective, acknowledging that while on-court coaching can provide valuable insight — especially for younger or less experienced players — it also alters the individuality and psychological edge that traditionally defined tennis.

According to Sharapova, one of the sport’s most unique elements has always been the requirement for players to problem-solve under pressure without assistance. Allowing coaching, she noted, moves tennis closer to other sports where real-time guidance is standard, which she believes could change the dynamic of competition and self-reliance on court..

There remains an ongoing debate within the tennis community over whether on-court coaching enhances the sport or undermines its traditional essence. Many believe that once a match begins, a player should rely solely on their instincts, preparation, and adaptability. Others argue that guidance from the coaching box adds strategic depth and reflects the evolution of modern high-performance sport.

Sharapova weighed in with her own perspective, using current stars Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as reference points. She noted that both players possess remarkable natural instincts and problem-solving abilities — qualities that often separate champions from the rest.

However, she acknowledged that their coaching teams play an increasingly visible role during matches, helping them fine-tune tactics, adjust court positioning, and maintain emotional balance.

“It depends on how the match is going,” Sharapova said (20:54). “There are a few times where I would tell my coach it’s enough. But yeah, I mean, the stress of the situation, I think, guides the communication between the player and the coach. Some players love it — they openly communicate with their coaches. I know Alcaraz does it very often, whereas others, I think Sinner does it less often.”…

Sharapova also acknowledged that her own relationship with coaching during matches wasn’t always straightforward. During her career, on-court coaching was prohibited at Grand Slam events, and players were expected to make tactical adjustments independently. One of the more notable incidents came at the 2007 Australian Open, where Sharapova was fined for receiving illegal coaching signals from her box during a match.

She reflected on that chapter with a mix of humor and honesty, admitting that in high-stress situations, players often instinctively look to their team for reassurance or guidance — even when they know it isn’t permitted. For Sharapova, moments like that highlighted just how emotionally intense and isolating tennis can be when an athlete is left completely on their own.

Maria Sharapova has a personal favorite between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz….

Maria Sharapova has often spoken with admiration about both Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, acknowledging their status as two of the brightest stars in men’s tennis today. She appreciates the talent, professionalism, and competitive spirit each brings to the court. Yet, despite her respect for both players, Sharapova has hinted that one of them resonates with her a little more on a personal level — suggesting that Sinner’s calm demeanor and disciplined mindset have earned a special place in her admiration.

“Carlos is incredible,” she said via La Gazzetta dello Sport. “What strikes me about him is his fighting spirit on every point. He can put on a show and ignite the audience every time he steps on the court. I am curious to see where he can go over the course of his career. I think in the beginning the comparisons to Rafa were inevitable, but he is developing his own style and personality and that will make him a unique player.”