The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), in partnership with Tennis Australia, has officially opened applications for the 2026 WTA Asia Pacific (APAC) Coach Inclusion Program—a groundbreaking pathway for female tennis coaches aiming to work at the highest level of the sport.
This exclusive WTA coaching opportunity is designed to increase the number of elite female coaches on the WTA Tour, giving women in tennis the tools, mentorship, and professional network to thrive in competitive coaching.
Already proven successful in past editions, the 2026 program offers a three-phase coaching development journey to identify, train, and retain the most promising female coaching talent from across Asia and the Pacific.
“Creating pathways for female coaches to succeed at the highest level of professional tennis is a priority for the WTA,” said Jaslyn Hewitt-Shehadie, WTA Director of Player Relations. “We’re thrilled to partner with Tennis Australia again to deliver a program that not only builds skills but provides real access to the professional tour environment.”
Table of Contents
How the Program Works: WTA APAC 2026
Phase 1 – Hong Kong Open (October 2026)
During the WTA 250 Hong Kong Open, participants will join in-person workshops and hands-on sessions covering:
- WTA Tour insights & coaching philosophy
- Tennis biomechanics & on-court coaching
- Tactics, game styles & winning strategies
- What makes a great WTA coach
Phase 2 – Virtual Learning (Nov–Dec 2025)
Online modules will dive into:
- Mental skills & mental health
- Strength & conditioning
- Performance nutrition
- Sports integrity
- Building your personal coaching brand
Phase 3 – WTA Tour Experience (Australian Summer of Tennis)
Coaches will step inside the WTA Tour environment during the Australian Summer of Tennis, with exclusive mentorship from a current WTA Tour coach.
Who Can Apply for the WTA APAC Coach Program?
You must meet two or more of these:
- Nominated by an Oceania or Asian Tennis Federation
- Former WTA Full Member
- Current or former WTA Associate Member with 2+ years of performance coaching experience
- Certified tennis coach (national or international certification)
- Private coach to an ITF Junior player for 3+ years
- Valid National Police Check & Working with Children Check relevant to your country
Extra points for:
- Professional tennis playing experience (highest level played)
- Coaching experience with ITF or WTA players as the primary coach
Deadline Reminder – Apply Now
- Applications close Friday, September 5, 2025
- Official Application Form: Click here to apply
- Email questions to jhewitt-shehadie@wtatennis.com or coach@wtatennis.com
How to Apply for the WTA APAC 2026 Coach Inclusion Program?
- Application Deadline: Friday, September 5, 2025
- Official Application Form: Apply Here
- Required documents: Federation nomination (if applicable), coaching résumé, proof of certification, and any relevant qualifications.
🌍 More regions coming soon—WTA Coach Inclusion Programs for North & South America, Europe, and the Middle East will be announced shortly.
Don’t miss this rare WTA coach audition chance to get courtside experience, connect with top professionals, and shape the future of women’s tennis.
FAQs-
Q. What is the WTA APAC Coach Inclusion Program?
A. The WTA Asia Pacific (APAC) Coach Inclusion Program is a professional development initiative by the Women’s Tennis Association and Tennis Australia. It aims to increase the number of elite female tennis coaches on the WTA Tour through training, mentorship, and exclusive tour access.
Q. Who can apply for the WTA APAC applications for 2026?
A. Female performance coaches from Asia and the Pacific who meet at least two eligibility criteria—such as having WTA membership, a valid coaching certification, or experience coaching ITF or junior players—can apply.
Q. What is the deadline for the WTA coach audition 2026?
A. The application deadline is Friday, September 5, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
Q. How do I apply for the WTA APAC 2026 Coach Inclusion Program?
A. You can apply by filling out the official online form and submitting required documents, including your coaching résumé, proof of certification, and any federation nominations.
Q. What does the WTA coach audition process involve?
A. The process includes attending in-person workshops at the Hong Kong Open, completing online training modules, and participating in real WTA Tour events during the Australian Summer of Tennis with mentorship from a professional coach.
Q. Are there other WTA Coach Inclusion Programs outside Asia Pacific?
A. Yes. The WTA will soon announce similar programs for North America, South America, Europe, and the Middle East. Keep an eye on official WTA announcements.
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