Organisers of the Australian Open have been forced to implement significant schedule adjustments as a severe heatwave is predicted to sweep through Melbourne during the quarter-final stages of the tournament. Forecasts indicate that temperatures could soar to a blistering 46 degrees Celsius, prompting the activation of the event's stringent extreme heat protocols.
Heat Stress Protocol Triggered During Matches
The tournament's heat stress scale, which ranges from 1 to 5, was already triggered during Jannik Sinner's third-round match on Saturday. This led to a temporary suspension of play and the closure of the roof on the main court to shield players from the intense conditions. Sinner, who experienced severe cramps in the 40C heat, later admitted he felt "lucky" that the break allowed him to recover and ultimately secure victory in his match.
Quarter-Final Schedule Modifications
In response to the anticipated extreme weather, several key changes have been made to the quarter-final schedule. Some matches, including those featuring top players like Aryna Sabalenka, will now commence at earlier times to avoid the peak heat of the day. Additionally, there is a high probability that roofs will be closed on the primary courts to provide a more controlled environment for competitors and spectators alike.
Additional Precautions for Staff and Participants
Beyond the adjustments for players, special conditions have been put in place to ensure the safety of tournament staff and ball kids, who are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Furthermore, the start of the wheelchair tournament has been rescheduled to Wednesday to mitigate risks associated with the extreme temperatures.
The Australian Open's proactive measures highlight the ongoing challenges posed by climate extremes in major sporting events, with organisers prioritising health and safety in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
