The forest fires in Australia have a major impact on the Australian Open, where qualifications started this week. Poor air quality causes problems in competitions and training in Melbourne.
The organization of the first Grand Slam tournament of the year did not allow players to train on Tuesday morning (local time) and the start of the qualifying games was postponed.
Dalila Jakupovic even had to give up later in those games. The Slovenian number 180 of the world had a lot of trouble breathing and decided to stop in her game against the Swiss Stefanie Vögele.
“We are constantly monitoring the situation,” the Australian Open organization said. “Further decisions are made on the basis of our data and in consultation with the medical team, meteorologists and scientists. The health of the players, their staff and the fans is the most important.”
Despite Jakupovic’s statement – she went to the floor and started coughing very much – the organization let the rest of the qualifying sessions continue. That led to criticism from a number of players on social media.
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For the app users: tap the tweet above for images of the Dalila Jakupovic assignment.
Forest fires are spreading quickly
Australia has long been plagued by heavy forest fires, which spread easily due to the heat and drought and are therefore difficult to control. At least 28 people have died and many houses have been destroyed.
Earlier this month, title defender and seven-time Australian Open winner Novak Djokovic expressed all his concerns. Tournament Director Craig Tiley then ensured that no risk is taken and that the health of the players is paramount.
The main tournament of the Australian Open starts – if air quality permits – next Monday. Kiki Bertens withdrew from the WTA-tournament in Adelaide on Monday, because she wants to be fit for the Grand Slam-tournament.
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