China’s Temperatures Set to Rise for Tennis Finals After Djokovic Vomits Again
Shanghai – Concerns are mounting over player welfare at the Shanghai Masters as temperatures are forecast to rise further, following a series of heat-related incidents. Novak Djokovic, the top seed left in the tournament, battled through extreme conditions, experiencing vomiting for the second time this week during his third-round match against Jaume Munar.
Djokovic, 38, who is aiming for a record-extending fifth title in Shanghai, struggled visibly in the nearly three-hour match, ultimately winning 6-3, 5-7, 6-2. He previously vomited during his match against Yannick Hanfmann on Sunday. After losing the second set, Djokovic collapsed on the court, requiring medical attention before continuing. He attributed his struggles to the "very challenging physically" conditions. Despite the difficulties, his victory makes him the oldest man to reach the quarterfinals at an ATP Masters 1000 event. He will face Zizou Bergs of Belgium in the next round.
The Serbian star isn't the only player struggling with the heat and humidity, which have seen temperatures soar to around 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) with humidity exceeding 80 percent. Alexander Zverev had to change his shoes mid-match due to excessive sweat. Jannik Sinner, the defending champion, retired from his match due to cramps. Emma Raducanu also withdrew from her match in Wuhan due to dizziness. Holger Rune voiced concerns about player safety, questioning whether officials wanted "a player to die on court?". Rune has called for the ATP to implement a heat rule. Spectators have also been seen using fans and cool packs to cope with the oppressive conditions.
While the main court in Shanghai has a roof, it remains open unless it rains, and no rain is expected for the remainder of the tournament. The ATP has stated that player safety is a priority and that medical staff are monitoring players closely.
The current forecast for Beijing indicates continued warm weather. This afternoon is expected to reach 30°C (86°F), feeling like 35°C (95°F) due to the sun. While there is no risk of rain, high cloud cover is expected to increase. Evening temperatures will cool slightly, but humidity is expected to remain high.
Djokovic's struggles come as other top players have exited the tournament. Carlos Alcaraz withdrew prior to the event to rest, and Sinner retired during his match. With several high-profile players out, Djokovic is now the highest-ranked player remaining in the competition, increasing his chances of securing his first Masters title since 2023.
