ATP Introduces New Extreme Heat Rule Starting 2026

The ATP Tour has announced a significant update to its player welfare protocols with the approval of a new extreme heat rule, set to take effect from the 2026 season. The decision comes amid growing concerns over player safety as athletes continue to compete in increasingly severe heat conditions at tournaments around the world.

The new regulation is based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index, a comprehensive measure that factors in air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation. By introducing defined thresholds for intervention, the ATP aims to bring greater consistency and medical clarity to how extreme heat is managed during matches.

Cooling Breaks and Match Suspension Thresholds

Under the policy, when WBGT reaches 30.1°C or higher during a best-of-three-set singles match, either player may request a 10-minute cooling break after the second set. The break applies to both players and allows for cooling measures such as ice towels or fans, hydration, clothing changes, showers, and even coaching, all under the supervision of ATP medical staff.

If conditions worsen and WBGT exceeds 32.2°C, outdoor play will be fully suspended until it is deemed safe to resume, prioritizing the prevention of heat-related illness.

Context, Alignment, and Player Safety

The rule brings the men’s tour into alignment with the WTA, which has enforced a similar heat policy since 1992. It will apply across ATP-run events, though the four Grand Slams will continue to operate under their own heat regulations.

Its introduction follows sustained criticism from players during the 2025 season, particularly at the Shanghai Masters, where extreme heat and humidity led to several high-profile incidents. World No. 2 Jannik Sinner retired mid-match due to cramps, Novak Djokovic was visibly ill on court, and Holger Rune publicly questioned the absence of a standardized heat rule during a medical timeout mid-match. “Why doesn’t the ATP have a heat rule? You want a player to die on the court?”

In announcing the policy, the ATP said the new framework offers a “structured, medically supported approach” to managing extreme heat, benefiting not only players but also officials, ball persons, staff, and spectators. With climate change continuing to push temperatures higher at outdoor events, the 2026 season, beginning in the Australian summer, will serve as the first major test of the new measures.