Wed Oct 08 11:20:00 UTC 2025: **Shanghai Masters: Players Question Heat Policy After Grueling Conditions**
Shanghai, China – Players at the Shanghai Masters are voicing concerns over the lack of a standardized heat policy on the ATP tour after enduring sweltering conditions that led to medical treatment for some and prompted stark warnings about player safety.
Holger Rune was among those struggling, requiring medical attention during his third-round match. He was quoted questioning an official on why the ATP lacked a heat rule, asking: “Do you want a player to die on court?”
The tournament has seen temperatures soaring to 34C with 80% humidity, leading to a wave of player complaints. Novak Djokovic described the conditions as “brutal,” while others like Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard spoke of feeling like he was “dying.” Terence Atmane even detailed suffering from shaking hands and suffocation due to the heat.
These concerns mirror those at the Wuhan Open, where Emma Raducanu retired due to dizziness, and Jelena Ostapenko suffered a heat stroke. Iga Swiatek expressed gratitude for avoiding play on the hottest day, urging organizers to schedule matches at safer times.
Currently, the ATP’s decision to suspend play is left to the discretion of on-site supervisors, unlike the WTA, which offers breaks based on the Heat Stress Index. This discrepancy, and the absence of mandatory breaks before deciding sets, is under review by the ATP.
While the ATP maintains player safety is a top priority, the recent events in Shanghai have intensified calls for a formal heat policy, with players like Rune arguing that limits must be set to protect their health.
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