Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
The ATP Tour has announced a new heat policy that will start in 2026 to protect players during extreme temperature conditions. This comes after several retirements at the Shanghai Masters due to high humidity and heat stress. The rule is based on the internationally recognised Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index, which measures human heat stress in direct sunlight, and sets clear thresholds for cooling measures and suspending play.
If the WBGT reaches 30.1°C (86.18°F) in the first two sets of a best-of-three match, players can request a 10-minute cooling break after the second set. During this break, they can hydrate, change clothes, shower, and receive coaching under ATP medical supervision. Play will be suspended if the WBGT goes beyond 32.2°C.
The ATP said the new policy aims to improve safety for players, officials, ball persons, and fans. Several incidents in 2025 highlighted the need for this rule, including Jannik Sinner retiring in Shanghai due to cramp, Novak Djokovic vomiting during a match, and Holger Rune questioning the extreme heat conditions. Similar situations occurred in Cincinnati when Arthur Rinderknech collapsed on court.
Previously, decisions on suspending play due to extreme weather were made by an on-site ATP supervisor with local authorities and medical teams. The new policy will align ATP rules with the WTA and the Grand Slam tournaments, which already allow extended breaks and match suspensions in extreme conditions.
Many professional sports like football, Formula One, and cycling already have formal procedures to manage extreme weather. The ATP hopes this new rule will provide a safer and more consistent approach for tournaments worldwide.
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