What is the heat rule at the Australian Open?
With the record-high temperature in Melbourne during the Australian Open the highest scale of heat policy has come into play.
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Extreme heat conditions during Australian Open
Sizzling weather in Melbourne during the ongoing edition of the Australian Open has once again overtaken the sizzling action on the court. Everyone following the sport knows how hot can it get in Australian cities during the first Grand Slam of the season. Amid the intense action players are already being seen getting uncomfortable gasping for breath.
As the record of the tournament goes, the 2014 edition was one of the hottest on record in recent times. Nine players retired that year from their first-round matches due to temperatures hovering around 40-44 degrees Celcius. Players complained about the serious risk to their health and later in 2019 the rules were revised and a Heat Stress Scale from 1-5 came into the picture.
The policy provides stipulated guidelines if there is a considerable rise in temperature. The lowest of the scales ie. Scale 1 is the measure of the ‘temperate playing conditions,’ while Scale 5 calls for a suspension of play on the outside courts.
- Scale 1 – Temperate playing conditions
- Scale 2 – Increase hydration
- Scale 3 – Apply cooling strategies
- Scale 4 – Extended breaks
- Scale 5 – Suspension of play
Among all the majors, weather impacts Australian Open the most. In recent years the heat has become an even bigger issue due to various factors. Accordingly, heat policies have evolved over the years. In 1998 first time a more blanket rule was introduced. The 2019 policy is the most comprehensive one yet with a graded response.
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Implementation of the rule was seen at the 2023 Australian Open
Not much relief from the heat was expected this year too. Just on the second day of the tournament, Australian Open announced the heat policy coming into play. On the first day itself, Rafael Nadal and Jack Draper struggled with the weather that impacted both of their game. The policy entitles the players to use a 10-minute break during their matches. The break gives them the option of staying on the court or using showers or cooling rooms.
Implementation of the guidelines is provided by the Australian Open. “The Heat Stress Scale will be used to measure four climate factors – radiant heat (strength of the sun), air temperature in the shade, relative humidity and wind speed,” the official website of the tournament says. Five specific positions around the venue including on the court in Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, and Melbourne Arena decide these factors.
There is also a provision for roof closure in the guidelines. “Roofs on Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, and Melbourne Arena can be closed in the event of rain or the Extreme Heat Policy is invoked prior to the scheduled start of play. If play commences with a roof closed, it will remain closed for the entire match,” guidelines say.
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Abhinavendu Singh
(290 Articles Published)