Wimbledon is set to heat up this week, and the tournament's Extreme Heat Policy could force matches to be suspended. The policy is designed to safeguard players when temperatures and humidity levels rise. Historically applied primarily to the women's draw, a standardised heat rule is now uniformly enforced across both men's and women's singles events.
How the Heat Rule Is Triggered
The heat rule is not determined by air temperature alone. Instead, it is triggered when the Heat Stress Index — measured using the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) — reaches or exceeds 30.1°C (86.2°F). This index takes into account air temperature, humidity, wind speed and the heat radiating directly off the grass surface. Officials record official readings 30 minutes before play gets under way each day, then again at 2pm and 5pm.
Requesting a Heat Break
Once the threshold is breached, a player may request a structured break to escape the heat. Only one player needs to make the request, but the break is awarded to both competitors. In best-of-three matches (women's singles), a 10-minute break is permitted between the second and third sets. In best-of-five matches (men's singles), a 10-minute break is permitted between the third and fourth sets. In wheelchair events, the break is extended to 15 minutes.
What Players Can Do During the Break
During these mid-match heat breaks, strict guidelines are in place to guarantee fairness. Players may leave the court, use the facilities, take a shower, or change their grass-court attire. However, players are prohibited from receiving medical treatment or tactical coaching during this period.
Exemptions and Restrictions
The 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. It also doesn't cover doubles matches, which are considered less physically demanding than singles. Matches that were suspended overnight and are being completed the following day are similarly exempt.
Suspensions in Extreme Conditions
Should conditions deteriorate significantly and the heat stress index surpasses 32.2°C, tournament officials hold the power to halt play on all outdoor courts until it is safe to resume.
