This was published 12 years ago
Tennis stars wilt in Aussie Open heat
Australian Open officials have applied the extreme heat policy for the first time this week at Melbourne Park as the sport's biggest names wilted in the punishing conditions.
With temperatures consistently above 40 degrees in Melbourne for a third day, tournament referee Wayne McKewen opted to enforce the extreme heat rule today.
Several players wilted in the extreme conditions, with women’s world number 50 Varvara Lepchenko one of many forced to take a medical time out.
The extreme heat policy meant the Rod Laver Arena roof was closed. (AAP)
Maria Sharapova had to complete her match before the roof was shut. (AAP)
Alize Cornet was reduced to tears during a change of ends. (Getty)
Olivia Rogowska does her best to keep cool in a break in play. (AAP)
Fans took any opportunity for some relief. (Getty)
These young fans were not above jumping in a fountain. (Getty)
Camila Giorgi gets some help from a trainer. (AAP)
Any shade was necessary in the stands. (AAP)
