Tournament organizers had to suspend day 2 of the ongoing Australian Open in adherence to the extreme heat policy, find out what this policy is all about.
The Australian Open, is widely regarded as the premier event of the Grand Slam of tennis.
Explained what is the extreme heat policy rule at the Australian Open tennis 2023
Thanasi Kokkinakis has been made to wait to begin his Australian Open campaign, after the extreme heat policy halted play on the outdoor courts here at Melbourne Park.
But wildcard Kimberley Birrell has become the latest local to reach the second round. @ayrtonwoolley #9News pic.twitter.com/2pS4Jd2nWG
— 9News Melbourne (@9NewsMelb) January 17, 2023
Due to Extreme Heat Policy, the roof at @RodLaverArena will now be closed. #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/j42fWERjpi
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2019
Unfortunately, for players and spectators alike, the most eagerly anticipated event on the tennis calendar had to be suspended due to extreme heat.
What is the extreme heat policy?
The organizers of the Australian Open brought out the extreme heat policy as a measure to protect the players, spectators, and staff from dangerous temperatures. The policy is based on the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index.
The WBGT index takes into account various aspects of the weather like air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation. These aspects helps to measure the potential heat stress inflicted on the players, staff, and spectators.
When the WBGT index reaches a certain level, the tournament organizers will quickly suspend play and initiate cooling measures. The WBGT index is calculated by first recording the temperature and humidity in the shade as well as the solar radiation in the sun, while also considering the wind speed.
Cooling measures
The organizers of the tournament have also put in various cooling measures under the extreme heat policy . These measures include providing shade and misters to the players, staff, and spectators. The policy also includes providing extra breaks in-between sets of plays.
Advisory steps from organizers
The organizers of the tournament have also put in various rules with the extreme heat policy. The policy requires all players, staff, and spectators to take their own steps in reducing the risk of heat stress. These precautions include:
- Wearing light-colored and loose-fitting clothing
- Staying in the shade or air-conditioned areas
- Drinking plenty of water
- Limiting physical activity during the hottest parts of the day
The organizers take the extreme heat policy very seriously and expect the players, staff, and spectators to follow the rules. Melbourne’s Grand Slam is one of the most prestigious events on the tennis calendar.
As such, the tournament’s organizers are taking the necessary precautions to ensure a safe experience for everyone involved. With the extreme heat policy, the organizers can ensure that the tournament can continue without causing any risk to everyone involved, including the players, staff, and spectators.
ALSO READ: SA20: Joburg Super Kings’ Aaron Phangiso reported for suspect bowling action