Australian Open Suspends Play as Extreme Heat Hits 40°C in Melbourne
MELBOURNE : Organizers of the Australian Open temporarily suspended play Saturday after extreme heat forecasted to reach 40°C (104°F) prompted safety concerns for players and spectators. Some matches later resumed under closed roofs.
Among the affected matches was the third-round clash between defending champion Jannik Sinner and American qualifier Eliot Spizzirri at Rod Laver Arena, which resumed about 10 minutes after the roof was closed.
The tournament announced via social media that play is suspended for all matches and practice on outside courts, adding that courts with retractable roofs will remain closed for the remainder of the match to ensure safety.
Melbourne Park experienced record-high temperatures on day seven, with players, officials, and spectators contending with intense heat. The tournament’s Heat Stress Scale, ranging from 1 to 5, reached its maximum rating of five in the early afternoon, triggering the suspension of outdoor play.
Officials emphasized that player welfare remains the top priority, and precautions such as roof closures and hydration breaks were strictly enforced to minimize heat-related risks.
