New York’s scorching summer heat coupled with some unfortunate injuries has forced the exit of 12 players at the US Open this year. This is a record number of player exits for any Grand Slam. The previous record dates back to US Open 2011.
Neck injuries, back pain, knee injuries, problems with the elbow, and shoulder injuries have led to the retirement of 10 men and two women tennis players in the first round itself. American tennis player Jack Sock collapsed on the court due to excessive heat. Other players also experienced multiple cramps which caused more trouble for them out there in the middle.
Generally during summer, tennis courts in New York turn to saunas. Players have to battle the searing heat and the penetrating unforgiving sun at the same time. Even with sunscreen applied, a three to four-hour game washes away both ointments and spirits. It becomes extremely important to stay hydrated and to keep the level of salts in the body up and running.
The game itself demands a lot. Tennis requires stamina, perseverance, and overall fitness. Add to that the grave challenge of hot summer conditions and the game changes within minutes. Dr. James Gladstone along with a team of doctors and professionals takes care of the players at the Open. While speaking to the press, Mr. Gladstone stressed on challenging weather conditions as an added layer of risk to players, who are highly vulnerable to injuries due to abrupt and frequent starts and stops during the course of the game.
The two-week open sees the best of Tennis from around the world. With several players retiring without giving a proper reason for it, the entire tennis fraternity can’t help but ask the question why? Will weather and injuries continue to score aces at the US Open this year? Or will the remaining players survive the long rally against New York’s summer and injuries? All that and more as the hard court juggernaut rumbles ahead.
(Featured Image Credit: cnn.com)
