Danger-Level Heat Turns Aussie Open into an Extreme Sport

Over the past few years, holding the season's first Grand Slam tournament in the middle of the Australian summer has become a show of physical endurance.

And not just because of what happens on the court.

Sweltering heat has introduced itself as a regular visitor, and it's taking a toll on the players.

 

Right now, it looks like temperatures over 40ºC/104ºF will be commonplace on most days in this fortnight.

And it's not just affecting the players:

 

Players will confirm when the temperature rises, balls tend to skid on a bit more, brush across the surface, and come through more quickly.

This is an advantage for those with blistering serves, like Roger Federer.

The No 2-seeded Swiss master definitely wasn't bothered by anything in his 6-3, 6-4, 6-3 first-round victory over Aljaž Bedene:

 

Seems like if Federer can avoid long volleys, the conditions here will serve him well.