Jannik Sinner nearly saw his bid for a third straight Australian Open title end as temperatures approached 40°C in Melbourne. The heat rule was invoked, allowing Sinner to come off court and have the roof closed, helping him recover from cramps and defeat Eliot Spizzirri 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.
Sinner was the biggest winner on a day when play was suspended on some courts, fans were warned about the extreme heat, and measures like mist tunnels, water machines, and sun umbrellas were used to keep spectators safe. Matches under the roof continued in cooler conditions, while outside courts resumed only later in the evening.
The extreme conditions were a reminder of how tough the heat can be at Melbourne Park, even for top players like Jessica Pegula.
