Feeling the Heat? The ATP Tour is finally stepping up to the plate! After facing brutal criticism from players, the men's professional tennis circuit is introducing a new extreme heat policy starting in the 2026 season. This is a game-changer, folks!
This year's tournaments, especially the Shanghai Masters, were a real scorcher, and players like Daniil Medvedev really struggled.
During a medical timeout at the Shanghai Masters, Denmark's Holger Rune famously questioned, "Why doesn't the ATP have a heat rule? You want a player to die on the court?" That's a pretty strong statement, and it really highlights the severity of the situation.
So, what's the new rule? Well, if the wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) – which takes into account air temperature, humidity, sunlight, and wind – reaches or exceeds 86.1 degrees during the first two sets of a three-set match, either player can request a 10-minute cooling break after the second set.
But here's where it gets controversial... if the WBGT hits or surpasses 90 degrees, outdoor play will be suspended entirely. It is important to note that this new rule applies to ATP-run tournaments, but not the four Grand Slam events, which have their own heat policies. The WTA (Women's Tennis Association) has actually had a similar policy in place since 1992. Before this change, the men's tour relied on on-site supervisors to make decisions on a case-by-case basis, which led to inconsistencies.
This year's Shanghai Masters was a prime example of the problem. World No. 2 Jannik Sinner was forced to retire due to debilitating cramps, and Novak Djokovic vomited on the court. Daniil Medvedev even asked a ball girl to remove his sweat-soaked shirt!
Following Rune's criticism, the tour stated that the lack of a mandatory heat policy was “under active review.” They promised to evaluate “additional measures, including the implementation of an official heat policy, in consultation with players, tournaments, and medical experts.”
And this is the part most people miss... These measures will be in place for the start of next season in January. What do you think about this new rule? Do you think it goes far enough, or should the ATP be doing more to protect its players? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
