ATP introduces new rules in case of extreme heat

Under a scorching sun, bodies broke down in Shanghai. Faced with extreme heat, the ATP reacts with an unprecedented plan: cooling breaks, match stoppages, and closed roofs. A small revolution to protect the players... and the spectacle.

© AFP

Clément Gehl

le 15/12/2025 à 12h03

1 min to read

The players' bodies during tournaments can sometimes be put to the test during heatwaves. The Shanghai Masters 1000 last October was particularly tough and led to a wave of withdrawals.

To try to address this, the ATP has implemented several rules: the introduction of a cooling break if the temperature exceeds 30.1°C, the possibility of a 10-minute break after the end of the second set at a player's request, and the stoppage of the match if it exceeds 32.2°C for more than 15 minutes.

Finally, the court roof will be closed if the temperature exceeds 32°C or if the court temperature surpasses 45°C.