Understanding Wimbledon's Heat Rules

Wimbledon 2025 is set to experience unprecedented temperatures, with forecasts predicting record-breaking heat on the opening day. To safeguard players, Wimbledon has implemented specific heat rules based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) scale. This measure considers air temperature, humidity, and surface temperature to determine when breaks are necessary.

How the WBGT Scale Works

The WBGT scale is crucial in deciding when to enforce the heat rule. If the WBGT reaches 30.1°C or higher, players are allowed a 10-minute break during their matches. These breaks are strategically placed:

• Best-of-five-set matches (Men's Singles): Break after the third set.
• Best-of-three-set matches: Break after the second set.

Key Points of the Heat Rule

• Application: The rule applies to all singles matches, even if they have already started when the WBGT surpasses 30.1°C.
• Breaks: Players can leave the court during breaks but are not permitted to receive coaching or medical treatment.
• Measurement: WBGT readings are taken 30 minutes before play starts, at 14:00 BST, and at 17:00 BST.

Special Considerations

• Carry-over Matches: If a match continues to the next day with the heat rule in place, it does not apply to best-of-three-set matches that have completed one set or best-of-five-set matches that have completed two sets.
• Lifting the Rule: If the heat rule is lifted during a match, it remains in effect until the match concludes.

Weather Analysis

Simon King, Lead Weather Presenter, notes that temperatures on Monday could reach 33°C, with a 'feels-like' temperature closer to 37°C due to humidity. This makes it the hottest opening day in Wimbledon history, surpassing the previous record of 29.3°C set in 2001.

Looking Ahead

While the heat will persist on Tuesday, cooler weather is expected later in the week, with potential rain on Wednesday and possibly the weekend. This shift will provide relief for both players and spectators.

Wimbledon's proactive approach to heat management ensures that the Championships can proceed safely, even under extreme weather conditions. By adhering to the WBGT scale and implementing strategic breaks, the tournament prioritizes player well-being without compromising the integrity of the competition.