Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Heat Challenge: Pickleball players at the 2025 Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships are battling extreme heat as they compete under the blazing sun. While many players struggle with the rising temperatures, they find ways to stay cool and keep playing.
Adapting to the Heat
Pro pickleball player Ian Simms traveled from Philadelphia to compete and admitted that the heat took some getting used to. “The first few days were rough, but now I’m starting to get used to the heat,” Simms said. “Today wasn’t as bad.”
Medical Support for Heat-Related Illnesses
As temperatures soar, players and fans alike have been feeling the effects of the sun. Kali Cook, a certified athletic trainer with Crossroad Sports Medicine, works with the medical team at the event. “It’s a long day out in the heat. Eventually, it will catch up to you,” Cook said.
“So, in those days, we started to see more people coming in for the heat-type illnesses.” To combat heat-related issues, the medical team has prepared a cold plunge to help lower core body temperatures quickly.
Staying Hydrated
While some players like Rick Malizia are able to handle the heat, he stays proactive by keeping a sports drink on hand. “I get to play about five days a week here. It gets very hot,” Malizia said.
Health experts stress that staying hydrated is key. Amy Oshier, a health and medical reporter for WINK News, said, “The biggest takeaway is to stay hydrated always – and that goes beyond walking around with a water bottle.”
Preventing Dehydration
Cook emphasized the importance of hydrating before the event. “We see a lot of people who come here, and they’re hydrating for today, but they haven’t been hydrating in the days before,” Cook explained. “If we’re not prepared, we cannot return from that dehydration.”
Tips for Staying Safe in the Heat
To stay safe in the heat, players should wear breathable clothing, take breaks in the shade, and be mindful of heat sickness symptoms like dizziness, excessive sweating, and headaches.
News in Brief: Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Heat Challenge
Pickleball players at the 2025 Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships are competing in extreme heat. Medical staff are on hand to treat heat-related issues, and experts emphasize staying hydrated. Players are encouraged to wear breathable clothing and recognize signs of heat sickness to stay safe.
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