Heatwaves Disrupt French Open Play
Heat accelerated play, prompting players to use ice packs and fans to seek relief under sprinklers.
The French Open is typically cooler than the Australian and U.S. Open, but heat was unusual in May 2024.
The extreme weather policy triggers 10-minute cooling breaks at 30.1°C and suspends play at 32.2°C.
Canadian player Gabriel Diallo retired due to heat.
Australian player Alex de Minaur and American Alex Michelsen played despite the heat, with de Minaur saying he didn't mind the heat and Michelsen noting the ball moves faster in hot weather.
Sustained heat is expected throughout the first week, but the 38°C play suspension threshold is unlikely to trigger.
French Open organizers did not respond to protocol implementation requests.
3 hours ago