'Heat Waves'! ATP To Introduce New Policy Over Heat From 2026 Due To...

Last Updated:December 16, 2025, 15:45 IST

The move comes on the back of a series of retirements due to high temperatures and severe humidity at the Shanghai Masters earlier this season.

Tennis Representational Image. (AFP)

The ATP Tour has announced the introduction of a new heat policy, effective from 2026, following a series of retirements due to high temperatures and severe humidity at the Shanghai Masters earlier this season.

The governing body of men’s tennis stated that the rule, based on the internationally recognised Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index used to measure human heat stress in direct sunlight, has “clear thresholds" for cooling measures and the suspension of play.

“The new heat rule provides a structured, medically supported approach to managing extreme heat, with the objective of safeguarding player health," the ATP said on Monday.

The rule is also expected to improve conditions for fans, officials, ball persons, and tournament staff.

If the WBGT reaches 30.1 C (86.18 F) or higher during the first two sets of a best-of-three-set singles match, either player can request a 10-minute cooling break after the second set, which will apply to both competitors. During these breaks, players can hydrate, change clothing, shower, and receive coaching under the supervision of ATP medical staff. Play will be suspended when the WBGT exceeds 32.2 C.

World number two Jannik Sinner’s Shanghai title defence ended in agony in October when he struggled to walk due to cramp in his right thigh, forcing him to retire in the deciding set of his third-round clash with Tallon Griekspoor.

At the same event, Novak Djokovic vomited during his encounter with Yannick Hanfmann, while Holger Rune was heard asking an official during a medical timeout in his match against Ugo Humbert if players had to “die on court" amid the heat and humidity.

The necessity for a formal ATP heat rule emerged in August in Cincinnati when Arthur Rinderknech collapsed on court during a match in sweltering conditions, conceding victory to Felix Auger-Aliassime.

Previously, ATP regulations stated that decisions regarding the suspension of play due to adverse weather conditions, including extreme heat, were the responsibility of an onsite ATP supervisor who coordinated with medical teams at the venue and local authorities.

The new rule aligns the ATP with the WTA. The four Grand Slams have also formally implemented rules allowing extended breaks and match suspensions.

Several professional sports, including soccer, Formula One, and cycling, have established policies to handle extreme weather conditions.

(With Inputs From Agencies)

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