The evolving landscape of wearables in tennis
In the high-speed world of professional tennis, players constantly seek an edge, whether through improved nutrition, training, or equipment. Wrist-worn devices, which monitor heart rate, recovery, sleep, and other biometrics, have become central to performance conversations. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) maintains an official Rules of Tennis that governs what equipment players may wear during matches. Notably, the ITF has approved certain health and performance devices, including the Whoop band, for use in ITF-sanctioned activities. However, there is a crucial nuance: grand slam events often set their own stricter rules beyond the ITF framework.
What the ITF approval means
The ITF approval signals that a device does not violate the fundamental principles of fair play or safety when used on court during ITF-sanctioned events. Whoop, a popular recovery and readiness wearable, has appeared on the ITF-approved list, which means players could in theory rely on its data for training decisions during ITF tournaments that follow the ITF’s official stance. The ITF’s role is to publish and enforce the official Rules of Tennis across ITF events, ensuring consistency on the court from local to international competition.
Why the distinction matters
Even with ITF approval, individual tournaments—especially the four majors—may implement their own restrictions. The Grand Slam events at Melbourne, Paris, London, and New York operate with a high degree of autonomy and often publish their own equipment guidelines. This separation means a device that is technically allowed by the ITF could still be restricted during Grand Slam matches if the tournament organizers decide so. The practical impact is that players must stay attuned to the rules of each event they enter, not just the overarching ITF policy.
What this means for players like Alcaraz and Sinner
Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, two of the sport’s brightest stars, have been at the center of the ongoing conversation about wearable tech on court. When reports emerge that wrist devices are on or off the banned lists, the implication is not merely about gadgetry but about how athletes manage data-driven insights during peak competition. A device that tracks sleep, heart-rate variability, and recovery could influence practice planning, match readiness, and even in-match decisions about scheduling or rest days. Yet, if a Grand Slam rules a device as prohibited, players must forgo using it during those events, regardless of ITF approval.
Balancing performance data with fair play
Wearables offer a wealth of objective data that can help athletes optimize training while reducing injury risk. But the sport’s governing bodies must balance that potential with the principle of fair play and the integrity of competition. Some concerns driving stricter Grand Slam policies include on-court distraction, equipment variance among players, and the desire for uniform conditions that limit any unintended advantage. For fans and analysts, this tension provides a richer narrative about how technology intersects with tradition in tennis.
What fans should watch next
As the 2024-2026 era unfolds, expect more clarity from the ITF about which devices are permissible at ITF events and a parallel stream from Grand Slams outlining any sport-specific restrictions. Players and teams will need to stay updated, ensuring their on-court gear aligns with the rules of the event they’re competing in. This evolving framework could influence training regimens, how players monitor recovery during long slam runs, and the strategic use of biometrics in preparation for major matches.
Bottom line
Wrist wearables remain a powerful tool for athlete monitoring, and ITF approval signals their general acceptability in many professional settings. However, the autonomy of Grand Slam organizers means that a device like Whoop might be allowed in ITF events but restricted in certain majors. For players such as Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, navigating these rules will be part of the ongoing strategic planning as they chase the sport’s highest honors.
