Understanding the Heat Rules at the French Open

As the mercury soared to 32°C (90°F) for five consecutive days at this year’s French Open, players and spectators alike battled the brutal heat. Yet, despite the blistering conditions, the tournament’s much-talked-about heat policy remained eerily silent.

Why the French Open’s Heat Policy Isn’t Triggering

The key? The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT)—a critical metric that accounts for heat, humidity, and sunlight. While the air temperature hit a blistering 32°C, the WBGT never quite reached the 30.1°C (86°F) threshold that would mandate cooling breaks between sets.

A WBGT of 32.2°C (90°F) would halt play entirely—but for now, the policy stays on the sidelines.

Roland Garros vs. Other Grand Slams: A Policy Outlier

While other majors like the Australian Open can swiftly close roofs to shield players and fans from extreme heat, Roland Garros operates differently. Its retractable roofs remain shut unless they were already closed before match time—leaving daytime players and spectators with no escape from the punishing sun.

With heat waves becoming more frequent, critics are left wondering: Is this policy outdated for a warming world?

Player Perspectives: Should Matches Move to Cooler Hours?

Some, like Novak Djokovic, have proposed a shift toward evening matches, arguing that closing roofs on select courts creates an unfair advantage for those playing indoors. Djokovic believes Grand Slams have enough courts to reschedule matches without compromising fairness.

The Big Question

As climate change reshapes the landscape of tennis, the debate intensifies: Should the French Open adapt its heat policy—or does the current system still hold up?