Heat and Victory: The High Stakes Battle for Tennis's Fittest The sweltering temperatures at this year's French Open have already raised eyebrows, but Casper Ruud's win over Roman Safiullin has brought a new level of attention to the heat related struggles plaguing top players.
Top seeds stumbling through grueling matches is nothing new, but this year's tournament has highlighted a critical issue that goes beyond mere discomfort or inconvenience.
The physical toll exacted by high temperatures and humidity can have long term consequences for players' health and careers.