Olympic Tennis Players Granted Heat Relief with 10-Minute Break

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has approved a 10-minute break between the second and third sets for singles matches at the Olympics due to extreme heat. The decision is based on the 'Wet Bulb Globe Temperature,' and players can use the break for rest but not medical treatment or coaching.

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has announced a 10-minute break between the second and third sets in singles matches at the Olympics due to extreme heat conditions.

The measure comes as temperatures in Paris are expected to hit 35 degrees Celsius (95°F), with the decision grounded in the 'Wet Bulb Globe Temperature' index for heat stress.

Players can use the break to shower, change outfits, eat, drink, or use the bathroom, but medical treatment and coaching will remain off-limits. Doubles matches settled by a match tiebreak won't feature the break, and rising temperatures may prompt match suspensions by a dedicated panel.