Play on the outside courts at the Australian Open has been suspended until 5am (UK time) due to sweltering conditions in Melbourne.
With temperatures once again exceeding 40°C, tournament organisers have decided to implement the 'extreme heat rule' amid concerns about the players' safety.
The roofs will be closed on Rod Laver and Hisense, allowing play to continue on the show courts.
Many have been critical of organisers for not coming to this decision sooner - none more so than Ivan Dodig, who had to withdraw from his second-round match with Damir Dzumhur yesterday.
Yesterday's intense heat was enough to melt plastic water bottles on court.
Written by
Michael Penkman
Michael Penkman
