Tennis Players to Wear Fitness Trackers in Underwear After Wrist Ban at Australian Open

Tennis players may soon be able to wear fitness trackers in specially designed underwear after a controversial ban on wrist-worn devices at the Australian Open 2026. The dispute arose when top players, including world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka, were instructed by umpires to remove their Whoop fitness bands mid-match.

The Controversy
While ATP and WTA tournaments generally allow players to use fitness trackers, Grand Slam rules are stricter. Reports indicate that although the International Tennis Federation (ITF) approved the device for use in December 2025, tournament officials cited safety and data regulations to bar players from wearing the bands on their wrists. This surprised many athletes, as collecting performance-related data during matches has become common practice.

Whoop’s Solution: Tracker-Friendly Underwear
In response, Whoop has launched a specialized line of underwear, the “WHOOP Body” collection, allowing players to securely fit their trackers in a pocket within the garment. The device itself has no display and is designed solely to measure body strain and recovery, making it popular among elite athletes.

Rules and Risks Remain
Despite the new apparel, players face risks if they attempt to use trackers during matches. Current regulations prohibit any body-worn data collection devices during play. Using the tracker—even discreetly in underwear—could result in penalties or fines until clear guidance from tournament authorities is provided.

This development highlights the growing intersection of sports technology and regulations, as athletes and tech companies find innovative ways to track performance within official rules.