Holger Rune Calls for Heat Rule at Shanghai Masters Amidst Challenging Conditions
World No. 11 Holger Rune is advocating for the ATP to establish a heat rule following a tumultuous beginning to the Shanghai Masters. The tournament has seen an alarming seven player retirements in the first three rounds, with many athletes, including Rune, undergoing vital checks during matches due to the extreme heat.
Rune shared his thoughts on the situation, stating, "I believe we need a heat rule similar to what is implemented in Grand Slam events. I’m confident that all players would agree with this." He acknowledged that the conditions had improved slightly on the day he spoke, commenting, "Today was better; it was less hot. However, it was still quite warm, around 31 degrees Celsius with high humidity. Compared to previous days, it was still challenging."
The Danish tennis star emphasized the importance of health and safety for players, noting, "While we can endure a certain level of heat—after all, we’re fit, strong, and mentally resilient—there’s always a limit. It’s crucial for our well-being." He suggested that a guideline similar to the Grand Slam’s approach could be beneficial, adding, "We shouldn’t just stop playing at the first sign of heat, but having a system that recognizes when conditions are becoming too extreme would help us manage our health."
As the Shanghai Masters continues, Rune’s call for a heat rule highlights the need for better protection and care for athletes competing in challenging weather conditions.
