The ATX Open has introduced a private rage room for players following debate about privacy at tennis tournaments. The initiative comes after an incident involving Coco Gauff at the Australian Open last month.
After a 59 minute quarter final defeat to Elina Svitolina at Melbourne Park, Gauff smashed her racket repeatedly in the match call area. The moment was broadcast globally, leading to discussion about the level of privacy available to players away from the court.
Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek were among those who called for greater privacy in off court areas following the incident.
In response, the WTA 250 event in Austin, Texas, announced the creation of a rage room designed to provide a camera free environment for players. In a post on its social media platforms, the tournament described it as a space where players can express frustration or emotion privately and safely. Images shared online included signage with the phrases do not smile and count to three alongside a broken racket.
Introducing the ATX Open rage room – the first of its kind – where players can privately express frustration or emotion in a safe, camera-free environment. pic.twitter.com/aeqh36kAsD
— ATX Open (@AtxOpen) February 25, 2026
Reaction on social media was largely supportive, although some questioned whether providing such a space could encourage physical expressions of frustration.
Elsewhere, organisers of the Dubai Tennis Championships have installed a smash room truck for fans during the tournament week. Chinese player Shang Juncheng participated in the activity on camera, stating that he smashed several items and described the experience as intense but beneficial in releasing frustration away from competition.
The introduction of dedicated spaces for emotional release reflects ongoing discussion within professional tennis regarding player welfare and privacy during tournaments.
