Tennis heat rule will apply across ATP Tour from 2026 season after player criticism
The men's tennis circuit will introduce an extreme heat policy from the 2026 season, following player criticism during sweltering conditions at some tournaments this year. This comes after several players, including Daniil Medvedev, struggled in the oppressive heat at the Shanghai Masters.
During the Shanghai Masters in October, Denmark's Holger Rune expressed frustration during a medical timeout against Ugo Humbert of France, asking, 'Why doesn't the ATP have a heat rule? You want a player to die on the court?' The extreme heat and humidity prompted the introduction of a new policy.
From next year, if the wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) reaches or exceeds 86.1 degrees during the first two sets of a three-set match, either player will be able to request a 10-minute cooling break at the end of the second set. If the WBGT reaches or exceeds 90 degrees, outdoor play will be suspended. This rule applies to ATP-run tournaments, not the four Grand Slams, which set their own heat rules. The WTA has had a similar policy since 1992.
The lack of a mandatory heat policy on the men's tour has been under review, with additional measures, including the implementation of an official heat policy, being evaluated in consultation with players, tournaments, and medical experts. These measures will be in place for the start of the next season in January.
The stifling heat at the Shanghai Masters had a significant impact on players, with world No. 2 Jannik Sinner succumbing to debilitating cramps against Tallon Griekspoor in the third round, and Novak Djokovic vomiting on court during his win against Yannick Hanfmann. Daniil Medvedev was also wary of cramping, even asking a ball girl to remove his sweat-soaked shirt.
James Hansen, a Senior Editor for The Athletic covering tennis, notes that the new policy addresses the concerns raised by players and will help ensure their safety and well-being during intense heat conditions.
