United Cup Press Release, December 20, 2024
In a world first for tennis, the United Cup will introduce timeouts to mixed doubles matches this summer.
A standard device in many team sports, the timeout will be implemented to give players and the team captain the opportunity to quickly discuss strategy and tactics, adding excitement and drama to the already crucial mixed doubles match.
Under the new rule, a player or captain can call a 60-second timeout during the mixed doubles match of each tie, giving each team the opportunity to confer on strategy in addition to the changing of ends.
Activated by a player or captain pushing a large red buzzer located in the Team Zone, the timeout will result in a visual digital takeover of RAC Arena and Ken Rosewall Arena, bringing fans into the moment and adding to the excitement.
Timeouts can be called when the captain or player’s team is serving and teams must convene at the Team Zone. They may not be used between first and second serves. A maximum of two timeouts (one per team) can be used during a mixed doubles match.
Once the timeout has concluded a 25-second shot clock will appear in stadium for players and their captains to resume play.
“Timeouts initiate a pause in play, it’s a time for teams to discuss tactics and strategy and potentially change the momentum of a match,” United Cup Tournament Director Stephen Farrow said.
“We’re excited to see how the best tennis players in the world and their teams utilise this new tool.
“Innovation is at the core of everything we do at the United Cup and this is another example of leading the way and finding new ways to present the sport and engage our fans.”
The third edition of the United Cup will be held from Friday 27 December to Sunday 5 January across Perth and Sydney.
The group stage in Perth starts at 10.00am Friday 27 December when Kazakhstan play Spain.
The group stage in Sydney begins at 10.30am Saturday 28 December when France takes on Switzerland.
For ticket information please visit UnitedCup.com/tickets.
