Australia Open 2023: Extreme heat waves across Melbourne has forced the suspension of several outdoor matches on Day 2 of the Australian Open. With temperatures hovering over 35 degrees on a scorching Tuesday, matches that were played in the afternoon took a toll on the players. Soon the tournament’s extreme heat policy was enacted with play suspended on the outside courts at Melbourne Park. Currently only matches at the Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and John Cain Arena are being played under closed roof. Follow Australian Open 2023 LIVE updates on InsideSport.IN
Australian Open 2023: Extreme heat waves hits Melbourne, players put to test forcing suspension of outdoor matches in Australia Open on Day 2 – Check Out
The AO Heat Stress Scale has reached 5 and play will be suspended on the outside courts. This means play continues until the end of an even number of games or the completion of a tie break. No new matches will be called to court. Play on outdoor practice courts is also suspended.
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2023
At around 2pm local time, the organisers have decided to suspend all the matches as the AO Heat Stress Scale has reached 5. The Australian Open introduced a Heat Stress Scale from 1-5 in 2019 – with five the highest possible and requiring play to be suspended after a tie-break or after an even number of games in a set. Conditions saw the heat policy enforced with play not expected to resume until 5pm (Australia Time).
Earlier at the start of the day, players struggled under the extreme heat. Former world No.1 Garbine Muguruza appeared to be cramping in the heat during her loss to Elise Mertens. The suspension of play however hasn’t gone down well with some players expressing their frustration.
Australia’s Jordan Thompson was in a fierce battle with American J.J. Wolf on Court 3 when play was halted. The Australian was leading 3-1 in the second set after losing the first 6-3. “When has that ever happened? I’ve been here when it’s like 45 degrees,” he raged at the chair umpire, after suspension.
Currently Andy Murray and Matteo Berrettini are in action at the Rod Laver Arena. Murray has won the first two sets and is crusing at the moment. Meanwhile, at John Cain Arena, Taylor Fritz and Nikoloz Basilashvili are in an intense battle.
Later in the day, nine-time champion Novak Djokovic will begin action. He will be facing Spain’s Roberto Carballes Baena in the second round. The match is estimated to begin at 2.45 PM IST.
Australian Open 2023: Extreme heat waves hits Melbourne, players put to test forcing suspension of outdoor matches in Australia Open on Day 2 – Check Out
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