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Australian Open Adjusts Schedule Amid Extreme Heat Concerns

1/23/2026

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Australian Open in Melbourne adjusted its schedule due to extreme heat.
Matches started at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday as temperatures reached 100°F.
The tournament has used a Heat Stress Scale since 2019 to protect players and allows heat breaks.
The ATP introduced a 2026 heat rule after player pressure, permitting cooling breaks if temperatures exceed 86.1°F.
Aryna Sabalenka expressed concerns about playing in such heat and urged adjustments.

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Story summary

The Australian Open in Melbourne adjusted its schedule due to extreme heat.
Matches started at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday as temperatures reached 100°F.
The tournament has used a Heat Stress Scale since 2019 to protect players and allows heat breaks.
The ATP introduced a 2026 heat rule after player pressure, permitting cooling breaks if temperatures exceed 86.1°F.
Aryna Sabalenka expressed concerns about playing in such heat and urged adjustments.