ATP To Introduce New Heat Policy For 2026 Season

The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Tour has announced a new heat policy that will come into effect from the 2026 season. The policy aims to better protect players and others involved in matches played in extreme temperatures.

“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.

Under the new rule, tournament officials will use the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index. This is an internationally recognised measure of heat stress that accounts for temperature, humidity, and solar radiation. WBGT helps to determine when cooling measures or suspensions should be applied.

If the WBGT reaches 30.1°C (86.18°F) 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. During this break, players may hydrate, change clothing, shower, and receive coaching under the supervision of ATP medical staff.

The policy also includes a play suspension threshold: if the WBGT exceeds 32.2°C, matches will be halted to safeguard health and safety. The introduction of the heat rule brings the ATP in line with similar measures already used by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and at Grand Slam events. Players can benefit from breaks or temporary stoppages when the heat reaches dangerous levels.

The move follows a series of retirements and heat-related complaints at tournaments such as the Shanghai Masters. High humidity and scorching conditions earlier this year prompted concern among players and officials.

Jannik Sinner’s bid to retain his Shanghai title came to a painful halt in October when he suffered severe cramp in his right thigh. The world number two was barely able to move. This forced him to retire in the deciding set of his third-round match against Tallon Griekspoor.

At the same tournament, Novak Djokovic vomited during his match against Yannick Hanfmann. World No 4 Holger Rune asked an official during a medical timeout against Ugo Humbert whether players were expected to “die on court.”