7 months ago
Alcaraz, Sinner, Sabalenka Barred from Wearing Whoop at Australian Open 2026
Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Aryna Sabalenka, top tennis players, were not allowed to wear their Whoop fitness trackers during the Australian Open in 2026.
The Whoop devices are approved by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for use in matches, but the Australian Open organizers said they are not allowed during Grand Slam tournaments.
This decision upset some people, including the founder of Whoop and former Australian tennis players.
They argued that the devices are safe and help players understand their bodies better.
Tennis Australia said they are talking about possibly changing this rule in the future.
For now, players can use other devices like Bolt 6 to monitor their performance.
Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Aryna Sabalenka were barred from wearing Whoop fitness trackers during the Australian Open 2026.
The Whoop devices are approved by the ITF for in-match wear but are banned during Grand Slam tournaments.
Critics, including Whoop founder Will Ahmed and former Australian players Todd Woodbridge and Lleyton Hewitt, argued against the ban.
Tennis Australia confirmed the ban but mentioned ongoing discussions about changing the rule.
Players can use alternative devices like Bolt 6 to monitor external load measures.
- Who
- Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka
- What
- Were barred from wearing Whoop fitness trackers during the Australian Open 2026
- Where
- Melbourne Park, Australia
- When
- During their matches at the Australian Open 2026
- Why
- Whoop devices are banned during Grand Slam tournaments, despite being approved by the ITF
Key facts
- Players Involved
- Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Aryna Sabalenka
- Device Banned
- Whoop fitness tracker
- Tournament
- Australian Open 2026
- ITF Approval
- Whoop is approved by the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for in-match wear
- Critics
- Will Ahmed, Todd Woodbridge, Lleyton Hewitt
- Tennis Australia's Stance
- Wearables currently not permitted at Grand Slams
- Alternative Data Provided
- Bolt 6 for monitoring external load measures
Quotes
Jannik Sinner
A professional tennis player and two-time Australian Open winner.
“There is certain data what we would like to track a little bit on court. It’s not for the live thing. It’s more about you can see after the match. These are data we would like to use also in practice sessions because from that you can practice on with the heart rate, how much calories you burn, all these kind of things.”
livemint.com
“It’s fine. There are other things we could use — (like) the vest. But it’s a bit for me uncomfortable — you feel like you have something on the shoulders. It’s a bit different. But rules are rules. I understand. I won’t use it again.”
livemint.com
Tennis Australia
The governing body for tennis in Australia.
“Wearables are currently not permitted at Grand Slams.”
livemint.com
WHOOP
The technology provider of the wearable fitness trackers.
“Taking that insight away is like asking athletes to play blind.”
livemint.com
Sources
Why Alcaraz, Sinner, Sabalenka were asked to remove fitness tracker at Australian Open despite ITF approval
What device were Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner ordered to remove in Australian Open 2026 & why? Explained in 5 points
Not for Sabalenka, Sinner and Alcaraz now, but wearables could be OK at future Australian Opens
‘Data is not steroids’: Why Carlos Alcaraz was forced to strip off fitness tracker device at Australian Open 2026
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