Today marked a first in U.S. Open history as an Extreme Heat Policy was implemented for men’s matches.

While the WTA Tour has an official policy in the rulebook, the ATP has no such official stance. For women’s players, a 10 minute break is provided between the second and third sets if requested by one player. Though men’s players have no official code, the USTA granted players a 10 minute break between the third and fourth sets of matches today.

Novak Djokovic and Marton Fucsovics spent the time cooling down side by side in ice baths before resuming play. Meanwhile, three other players retired with heat related illnesses. Argentinian Leonardo Mayer went so far as to call for an abandonment of best three out of five set matches.

Soaring temperatures combined with extreme humidity have provided difficult conditions for players and fans. Props to the USTA for stepping up and ad-libbing a heat policy, but it’s time the ATP follows the WTA’s lead and gets something on the rule books.

Not only must the ATP show it wants to protect players, but it must also ensure fans quality tennis. Tennis is much more physical than it used to be, and playing in these conditions takes even more of a toll on players.

Novak Djokovic, one of the fittest human beings on the planet, had to call for a bucket as he was feeling ill. If that’s not a red flag then the ATP has on some serious blinders.

As far as dropping three out of five set matches… Sorry Leonardo, but I don’t see it happening. Federer has a bit more pull than you and he has called for even more five set matches. Right now I think the ATP has the proper balance of best of three and best of five set matches. It would be a shame to see the physicality taken out of the sport, though extra precautions must certainly be taken.

To all the Cracked Racquet fans at this years US Open, heat poses just as many dangers for spectators as it does for the players. While players are drinking every changeover, fans oftentimes forget to properly hydrate. Sunburn is also a real concern for fans who sit for extended periods in the blazing sun throughout the day. Make sure to keep water with you at all times and find some time to relax in the shade.

If the weather follows the current trend, the USTA may even adopt a further non-negotiable measure: players walk out to the classic Nelly “Hot in Herre” song.

As the tournament continues deeper into the draw, matches will only become more intense. Fortunately the USTA has shown initiative and been proactive in considering player safety.

Have you been at the open at all this week? Let us know how the heat has affected you by commenting below.