Blistering 36°C: Australian Open 2026 Heat Policy Forces Match Suspensions

The heat didn't just sizzle; it stopped play. On January 24, 2026, Melbourne Park turned into a furnace as temperatures hit 36 degrees Celsius. According to Reuters, the Australian Open invoked its extreme heat policy, shutting roofs on main courts and halting all action on outside courts to protect athletes and fans alike.

Australian Open 2026 Heat Policy: The 5.0 Threshold

The tournament's sophisticated Heat Stress Scale, which measures more than just temperature, hit the maximum level of 5.0 in the early afternoon. Defending champion Jannik Sinner was the most visible victim of the conditions. Trailing in his third-set match against Eliot Spizzirri, Sinner was seen cramping and struggling to move before an 8-minute relief break was granted under the policy.

Florida Resilience vs. Melbourne Heat

While some wilted, others thrived. Florida residents Jessica Pegula and Amanda Anisimova used their experience in humid conditions to breeze through their matches. Anisimova wrapped up her win in just 71 minutes, stating that while she "hated training in the summer," it finally paid off. Meanwhile, fans with ground passes were advised to stay hydrated and use misting fans scattered throughout the venue.