Heat Stress, Heat Illness and Hydration in Elite Tennis Players

Tennis is a popular sport predominately played in the summer months on outdoor courts. Compared to cool conditions, playing tennis under heat stress leads to exacerbated thermal (i.e., core and skin temperatures), physiological (e.g., heart rate) and perceptual (e.g., perceived exertion and thermal comfort/sensation) strain, which in turn may influence physical performance and match tactics. Whilst hyperthermia-induced dehydration contributes to impair aerobic capacity, as well as speed and power during match-play, it would appear that the nature of the game with its regular breaks, allows for players to remain sufficiently hydrated when competing in the heat. Players should nonetheless monitor their hydration status and aim to start matches in a well hydrated state. Players should also adequately prepare for competing in hot conditions by heat acclimatizing and utilizing individualized cooling strategies (e.g., ice towels and fanning) based on the type of environment they will encounter (e.g., hot/dry or hot/wet). Event organizers should understand the risks associated with heat illness presentation and be prepared to implement transparent Extreme Heat Policies based on the specificities of match-play tennis in hot environmental conditions.