Top News

Controversy over fitness band

Recently, a unique controversy has emerged in the Australian Open 2026, which is not to the behavior of the players, but to the fitness bands worn by them. In recent matches, prominent players like world number one Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka were asked by umpires to take off their fitness bands. This controversy has particularly arisen due to a fitness band from a company called Whoop, which is also used by Indian cricketer Virat Kohli.

Changes in fitness band rules

Recently, this fitness band has become a cause of controversy under the rules of the Grand Slam. According to a report, Whoop has introduced a special underwear for the players, due to which their band will not be visible in the hands.

Full details of the dispute

In other ATP and WTA tournaments, tennis players use fitness bands such as Whoop. But in a Grand Slam like the Australian Open, the rules are a bit strict. According to reports, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) had given permission to wear this device in December 2025, yet tournament officials refused to allow wrist wear citing security and data rules. This was a shocking decision for players, as it is normal to collect performance- data during games.

new underwear solution

Following the controversy over wearing WHOOP fitness trackers at the Australian Open 2026, the company has introduced a new solution for players. WHOOP has launched a specially designed underwear, allowing players to record their fitness data during matches by wearing a tracker in the underwear.

Features of WHOOP Tracker

WHOOP is a fitness tracker that has no screens and focuses on measuring the body’s recovery and stress. It remains the choice of many famous athletes due to its accurate tracking and comfortable design. After tennis players were not allowed to wear wrist trackers, the company has launched a new collection called ‘WHOOP Body’, which includes special underwear that has a separate pocket to keep the tracker.

future challenges

Despite umpires refusing to wear armbands and the company making clothing that hides the bands, the use of the devices during games is not without risk for players. Currently the rule is that players cannot have any device collecting data on their body while playing tennis.

If players wear the device even in underwear, it will be considered a violation of the rules, which can result in a heavy fine or penalty. Until clear guidelines come from the authorities regarding the use of bands, players will have to maintain distance from such devices.