Australian Open Alters Day 7 Schedule Amid 100-Degree Melbourne Heat Forecast
The Australian Open has made significant changes to its schedule on Day 7 in anticipation of scorching temperatures in Melbourne. With the forecast predicting highs around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), the tournament has proactively adjusted its match times.
Revised Match Schedule
Matches on the major courts will now commence at 10:30 a.m., one hour earlier than the usual start time. The adjustment aims to minimize play during the hottest part of the day and allows for an extra match on the Margaret Court Arena.
- Extra match scheduled on Margaret Court Arena
- Only three singles matches set for Kia Arena
Margaret Court Arena is one of three venues equipped with roofs, alongside Rod Laver Arena and John Cain Arena. These roofs can be closed to provide shade and keep temperatures more manageable during extreme heat.
Heat Stress Scale Implementation
The Australian Open adopted the Heat Stress Scale in 2019 to better assess the impact of heat on players. This scale incorporates key environmental factors:
- Air temperature
- Radiant heat
- Humidity
- Wind speed
Under these guidelines, breaks are permitted based on the heat index. For instance, a recorded score of four (4.0) on the Heat Stress Scale triggers 10 to 15-minute breaks during matches.
Previous Heat Regulations
Before this scale, the Australian Open relied on Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) readings for its heat management. The WBGT considers air temperature, humidity, sunlight, and wind, becoming essential in formulating the ATP and WTA’s heat policies.
The ATP, responding to growing player concerns, introduced its own heat rule set to take effect in 2026. Players can request a cooling break during extreme heat conditions, enhancing their safety during matches.
Players Facing the Heat
Several notable players will contend with the challenging weather during Saturday’s matches, including:
- Jannik Sinner versus Eliot Spizzirri
- Madison Keys against Karolína Plíšková
- Jessica Pegula facing Oksana Selekhmeteva
- Novak Djokovic competing against Botic van de Zandschulp in the evening
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka expressed her concerns regarding playing in such extreme conditions. She remarked how important it is to adapt to changing weather circumstances to succeed in the tournament.
The forecast indicates a brief cooling period before temperatures spike again early next week, possibly affecting remaining players. Everyone is curious to see how these dynamics will influence performance as the tournament progresses.
