Sport|Tennis‘Do you want a player to die on court?’ – Tennis stars wilt in China heatWeather conditions have led to player complaints even as temperature is likely to rise through to Sunday’s Shanghai Masters final.
## High Temperatures Impact Tennis Tournaments in China
High Temperatures Impact Tennis Tournaments in China
Recent tennis events in Shanghai and Wuhan, China, have been significantly affected by high temperatures and humidity levels. These conditions have posed challenges for players and spectators alike, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F) and humidity levels surpassing 80%.
Notable players, including Novak Djokovic and Holger Rune, have expressed concerns regarding the extreme weather conditions. Djokovic, despite facing physical challenges and an ankle injury, advanced to the quarterfinals. Rune has called for the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) to establish a heat rule to safeguard player health during such events.
The ATP currently manages weather-related decisions in coordination with on-site supervisors, medical teams, and local authorities. In contrast, the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) has implemented a heat policy. At the WTA Wuhan Open, players are allowed a 10-minute break between the second and third sets when temperatures exceed 30°C. Additionally, the center-court roof can be partially or fully closed to protect players.
Recent tennis events in Shanghai and Wuhan, China, have been significantly affected by high temperatures and humidity levels.
Weather forecasts indicate continued high temperatures, with peaks expected during upcoming finals in Shanghai and Wuhan. These conditions highlight the need for consistent heat management policies across major tennis tournaments to ensure player and spectator safety.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.