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Australian Open Enforces Wearable Ban as Whoop CEO Sends ‘Body’ Undergarments to Players

Grand Slam rules currently keep in‑match wearables barred despite ITF guidance.

Overview

  • Carlos Alcaraz was told mid‑match to remove a Whoop band, with reports that Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka were also instructed to take theirs off.
  • Grand Slams operate under a different rulebook than the ATP and WTA, which have approved in‑match wearables since 2024 and 2021 respectively.
  • Whoop founder Will Ahmed criticized the removals as “ridiculous” and urged that players be allowed to measure their bodies.
  • Ahmed said Whoop is shipping its discreet ‘Body’ undergarment line to players so devices can be worn in clothing during matches.
  • He cited ITF guidance indicating Whoop can be worn safely in competition, as debate grows over athlete access to biometric data such as heart rate, sleep, stress and recovery.