Wimbledon heat rule explained as matches could be forced to be suspended

Wimbledon heat rule explained as matches could be forced to be suspended

In: Sport

Wimbledon is set to experience a heatwave in the second week (Image: Getty)

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Everything you need to know on the Wimbledon heat rules and how they could force matches to be suspended

  1. Wimbledon features a specific Extreme Heat Policy designed to protect players when temperatures and humidity climb. Historically, this rule primarily applied to the women’s draw, but a standardised heat rule is uniformly applied to both men’s and women’s singles events.
  2. The heat rule is not based on air temperature alone. Instead, it is activated when the Heat Stress Index—measured using the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT)—reaches or exceeds 30.1°C (86.2°F).
  3. This index factors in air temperature, humidity, wind speed and the heat radiating directly off the grass surface. Officials take official readings 30 minutes before play begins for the day, at 2pm and at 5pm.
  4. Once the threshold is crossed, a player can request a structured break to escape the heat. Only one player needs to request it, but the break is granted to both opponents.
  5. In best-of-three matches (women’s singles), a 10-minute break is allowed between the second and third sets. In best-of-five matches (men’s singles), a 10-minute break is allowed between the third and fourth sets. In wheelchair events, the break is extended to 15 minutes.
  6. During these mid-match heat breaks, strict guidelines apply to ensure fairness. Players can leave the court, use the restroom, take a shower, or change their grass-court attire. Players cannot receive medical treatment or tactical coaching during this time.
  7. The heat rule does not apply to matches played under a closed roof on Centre Court or No. 1 Court, as the roof provides shade and a controlled environment. The rule does not apply to doubles matches, which are deemed less physically taxing than singles.
  8. It does not apply to matches that were suspended overnight and are being completed the next day. If conditions worsen drastically and the heat stress index exceeds 32.2°C, tournament officials have the authority to suspend play on outdoor courts entirely until conditions become safe.
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