MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) - Wearable fitness trackers may soon be allowed for players at the Australian Open, following incidents where top players Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Aryna Sabalenka were required to remove their devices during matches this year. This restriction has drawn attention to the disparity between regular tournaments and the four major Grand Slam events, which currently do not permit these devices.
During the fourth round of the Australian Open, chair umpires approached both Alcaraz and Sinner, who have won the last eight major men’s singles titles, and asked them to remove their wristwear. Videos documenting these moments highlighted the ongoing discussions regarding technology and player performance. Earlier in the tournament, Sabalenka faced a similar situation.
Wearable fitness trackers are increasingly prevalent in elite sports, as they provide valuable physiological data that aids athletes in monitoring their health and performance across various stages, including training, competition, recovery, and sleep. While the International Tennis Federation and both the men’s and women’s tours approve the use of such technology, it has yet to gain acceptance at Grand Slam tournaments, including the Australian, French, and U.S. Opens, as well as Wimbledon.
Tennis Australia stated that "wearables are currently not permitted at Grand Slams" but also mentioned their involvement in ongoing discussions to potentially change this policy in the future. The organization highlighted that players can access specific data during the Australian Open, which allows them to monitor essential external load metrics such as distance covered, direction changes, high acceleration events, and the speed and spin of their shots.
The technology provider, WHOOP, markets its device as a "24/7 wearable coach designed to help you improve your health, fitness, and longevity." The company characterized the technology as "performance-enhancing by design," asserting that withholding such insights from athletes is akin to asking them to "play blind." This sentiment was echoed by Sinner, a two-time Australian Open winner, who mentioned that the data his wrist device collects aids in his recovery and prepares him for future matches.
Sinner explained, "There is certain data we would like to track a little bit on court. It’s not for live use; it’s more about post-match analysis." He emphasized the importance of data regarding heart rate and calorie expenditure, which can inform practice sessions and overall training strategies. Following his victory over Luciano Darderi, Sinner accepted the umpire's decision to remove the device without hesitation. "It’s fine. There are other things we could use, like a vest. It’s a bit uncomfortable, but rules are rules, and I understand," he remarked.
The debate surrounding the use of wearable fitness trackers at Grand Slams reflects a larger conversation about technology's role in sports and its implications for fair competition. With Tennis Australia exploring potential changes to their policy, the future may see these performance-enhancing devices integrated into major tournaments, allowing players to leverage advanced technology in their preparations and on-court strategies.
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