The 2026 Australian Open is underway with intense matches and schedule adjustments due to extreme heat, highlighting player performances and safety measures.
On Day 6, top seeds Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the fourth round with decisive wins. Alcaraz dominated Corentin Moutet in straight sets, while Sabalenka overcame a tough challenge from Anastasia Potapova, both reinforcing their status as title contenders. Their victories came amidst a packed schedule that saw several key players progress smoothly through the early rounds.
The focus shifted to Rod Laver Arena where Australian Alex de Minaur faced American Frances Tiafoe in a gripping third-round encounter. De Minaur started strongly, winning the first set 6-3 with precise shot-making and resilient defense, energizing the home crowd. Tiafoe, known for his powerful serve, struggled to maintain consistency as de Minaur capitalized on break opportunities, setting the tone for a competitive match.
Elsewhere, Daniil Medvedev staged a dramatic comeback from two sets down to secure his place in the next round, showcasing his tenacity. Coco Gauff also advanced with a hard-fought victory, contributing to a day of thrilling tennis across both singles draws. These results have set up compelling matchups for the later stages of the tournament.
Organizers announced schedule changes for Day 7 due to forecasts of extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach 41 degrees Celsius (106 degrees Fahrenheit). Matches will start an hour earlier to avoid the peak afternoon heat, and play may be suspended if conditions become unsafe under the tournament’s heat policy. This proactive approach aims to protect player health and ensure fair competition.
In response to the heat, Novak Djokovic cancelled his practice session ahead of his next match, though no issues were reported; he is scheduled to play in the cooler night slot. The heat policy includes closing roofs on major courts if necessary, with officials closely monitoring weather conditions to make real-time adjustments.
Players have been advised to hydrate and take precautions, with some expressing appreciation for the adjusted schedule. The measures reflect the Australian Open’s ongoing efforts to balance sporting excellence with environmental challenges, drawing from past experiences to manage heat-related risks effectively.
Looking ahead, Day 7 features high-profile matches including Djokovic’s night session and Jannik Sinner’s midday start, where heat endurance could play a critical role. This event underscores the broader trends in tennis of adapting to climate impacts while maintaining the integrity and excitement of grand slam competition.
