Shanghai, China ​- Tenth-seeded Holger ⁤Rune‍ is advocating for the implementation of a standardized heat⁣ rule at the Shanghai masters, allowing players respite ⁣during periods of⁤ extreme temperatures. The call comes after⁤ Rune himself battled through a grueling match against Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, ultimately winning 6-4, 6-7 (7-9), 6-3.

Rune, 22, required a medical timeout during the contest, citing the oppressive heat and humidity⁤ as contributing factors.⁤ he wasn’t alone in his discomfort. Novak Djokovic also publicly described ‍the conditions‍ as “brutal,” and ‌was visibly unwell, reportedly vomiting during⁢ his second-round match.

Following his victory over perricard, Rune urged the Association⁤ of Tennis Professionals ⁤(ATP) to adopt regulations mirroring those used by Grand ⁢slam organizers.Currently,grand Slam tournaments empower on-site supervisors⁤ to determine whether matches should ⁣be suspended or paused for extended‍ breaks when temperatures⁣ surpass 30.1 degrees ⁤Celsius.

I think there ⁤should be a heat rule like there are in the Grand Slam. I think‌ every player would agree on ​that.
Holger Rune

Rune acknowledged that conditions improved slightly during his match, but emphasized the ongoing concern. “Today was better…today was less hot, but again if​ it ⁢was more normal temperature today would ⁢be very hot. I think it was‍ like 31 degrees and ⁢very humid. But compared to the​ other days it was pretty brutal,” he stated.

Concerns Over Player Safety

The calls for a standardized heat rule highlight growing concerns about player safety in increasingly challenging climatic conditions on the professional tennis tour. The debate is likely to continue as the Shanghai⁤ Masters progresses and players navigate the demanding environment.