Tennis stars Aryna Sabalenková (27), Carlos Alcaraz (22) and Jannik Sinner (24) could not play at the Australian Open with bracelets monitoring their physical condition. They are not allowed to be worn at Grand Slams, which the women’s world number one in particular spoke out against. “I hope they will reconsider and let the players monitor their health,” she blamed the organizers of Belarus.
Whoop fitness bracelets are approved by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and tennis players can play with them in most WTA and ATP tournaments. But the organizers of the four Grand Slams did not give their consent, and therefore the referees warned the players to take off their wristbands before the matches in Melbourne.
“I took the bracelet to the court because I received an email saying that we have permission from the ITF. We wear it all year, at all tournaments, it just keeps my health in check,” said Sabalenková on Tuesday. “I don’t understand why the Grand Slams don’t allow it. I hope they reconsider and let the players monitor their health,” added the semifinalist of the tournament.
In response, Tennis Australia said the organizers were discussing the matter. “Wearable electronics are currently not allowed at the Grand Slams. The Australian Open is participating in discussions about how this situation could change.”
Men’s World No. 1 Alcaraz had to remove his armband, which was under his sweat, before his victorious round of 16 against Tommy Paul. Renowned coach Patrick Mouratoglou has said that tennis is in danger of falling behind other sports.
An alternative is a vest
“If the rules don’t allow players to monitor body function during matches, then tennis will once again be worst in class. Carlos and his team just wanted to be professional,” said Serena Williams’ former coach.
Reigning Australian Open champion Sinner also had to take off his bracelet before the round of 16, in which he defeated fellow Italian Luciano Darderi. “The umpire immediately asked me if it was a wristband. When I said yes, I had to take it off. But that’s fine. You can wear other things (to monitor fitness) like a vest, but it’s a bit uncomfortable. Anyway, rules are rules. I understand and I won’t wear it anymore,” the four-time Grand Slam champion said conciliatoryly.
The article was originally published for Livesport Zprávy.
