Australian Open 2026: Jannik Sinner thankful for Melbourne heat rule
Jannik Sinner’s ambitions to win a third consecutive Australian Open title appeared close to ending as Melbourne temperatures approached 40°C.
In the end, rising temperatures helped the cramp-ridden Italian get through a tough third-round match as the Grand Slam tournament’s knockout rule came into play.
Only a trip off the field and the roof falling saved Sinner from a shock defeat to America’s world No.85 Eliot Spizzirri.
“I was lucky in the heat rule,” said Sinner, who won 4-6 6-3 6-4 6-4.
Sinner was undoubtedly the biggest winner on a sweltering day when play was suspended and almost 100,000 fans were warned to be careful in the heat.
While the matches on the demonstration courts were played under the roof in cooler conditions, the matches on the outdoor courts did not continue until 19.30 local time due to the heat.
Mist tunnels, water machines and parasols helped spectators cool off.
While the ball boys squatted on the net post, they placed their hands on their feet instead of on the court to prevent their palms from burning.
American actress Jessica Pegula said the stars were “used” to the scorching heat but Saturday’s conditions were a reminder of how brutal it can be at Melbourne Park.
