Facing dangerously high temperatures expected to last for more than a day, the US Open has extended a heat rule to men that only exists in the women’s tour.
The US Tennis Association says its medical team recommended the immediate implementation of the heat policy for the men, who will be allowed a 10-minute break between the third and fourth sets.
Its statement says the tournament referee, along with the medical team, would continue to monitor conditions on site to determine when the extreme heat policy would no longer be in effect.
The WTA has a heat rule allowing women a break between the second and third sets. There is no such rule on the ATP Tour.
Temperatures were already up to 35 degrees Celcius by early Tuesday afternoon, with humidity levels further distressing players.