ITF World Coaches Conference Wraps Up in Vilnius
The 24th ITF World Coaches Conference concluded in Vilnius with a spirit of collaboration, innovation, and inspiration, capturing the event’s theme: ‘Future Trends in Tennis: Preparing Today for Tomorrow’s Game.’
Hosted at the SEB Arena in partnership with the Lithuanian Tennis Union and Tennis Europe, the conference welcomed 479 delegates from across more than 92 nations - a true celebration of the global coaching community. Over three days, keynote sessions, workshops, and discussions explored how tennis coaching continues to evolve at the heart of the sport.
Opening the conference, ITF President Dave Haggerty encouraged coaches to embrace progress through modern methodologies, innovation in player development, and the use of emerging technologies. His message - to leave Vilnius with fresh ideas and practical tools - resonated through every session that followed.
Across the programme, speakers and experts delved into the key issues shaping the future of tennis: inclusivity, sustainability, data-driven insights, and the integration of AI and digital tools in coaching. Italy’s Billie Jean King Cup captain Tathiana Garbin inspired with reflections on leadership, team culture, and the people behind success, reminding delegates that “behind every victory is a team.” She also championed women in tennis while spotlighting the Italian player pathway and the systems that nurture talent from grassroots to the elite level.
That spirit of development and collaboration continued as Dr Brian Hainline explored tennis as a sport for life, urging coaches to harness research and community networks to help players of all ages and abilities thrive. Meanwhile, former professionals Ernest Gulbis, Kaia Kanepi, and Ričardas Berankis shared first-hand perspectives on the transition from junior to professional tennis, underscoring the importance of adaptability and resilience in achieving long-term success.
Sessions on performance and partnership brought further depth. Jacco Eltingh took a deep dive into the art of doubles development, exploring communication, strategy, and trust, while conditioning expert Beni Linder offered a modern look at physical preparation, recovery, and holistic training practices.
Empowerment and equity were central themes throughout the event. In a thought-provoking session, Salma Mouehli discussed the challenges and opportunities in coaching female players, touching on confidence-building, communication, and the vital role of female role models, reinforcing the ITF’s Advantage All commitment to equity and inclusion.
Interactive breakout sessions encouraged coaches to share practical approaches and success stories. Conversations on mental strategies placed athlete well-being at the forefront, while workshops on tactical analysis highlighted how AI, video, and data are transforming player development. Sessions on inclusive coaching explored adaptive frameworks and universal design, showcasing how tennis can truly be a sport for everyone.
Global collaboration ran as a golden thread throughout the conference. Federations, associations, and individual coaches exchanged knowledge to elevate standards worldwide, while updates on ITF’s education and certification frameworks showcased ongoing efforts to strengthen coaching across all levels.
Beyond the court, delegates considered how tennis can contribute to a more sustainable future. Sessions on environmental impact and community engagement encouraged coaches to use their programmes as platforms for positive change.
Among practical highlights, the joint ITF and USTA Red Ball initiative demonstrated how innovative adult engagement programmes can create pathways from red to yellow ball play - a growing success story since its launch at this year’s US Open.
Following the main conference, over 40 National Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI) Coordinators and ITF Tutors attended the 4th Global JTI Workshop and a focused tutor session. The attendees extended the conversation from the Conference, strengthening their connections to reinforce the ITF’s commitment to quality coach education across all levels. In particular, focus on the implementation of the new ITF School Tennis Teacher Certification took place, focusing on how grassroots tennis development by teachers in schools can be maximised to increase exposure to tennis for future generations.
As the conference concluded in Vilnius, delegates left with renewed energy and shared commitment to advancing coaching and driving the future of tennis worldwide.