Is it right to hold the Australian Open despite the fine dust pollution? Now a recognized expert speaks – and raises the alarm.
The lung specialist Dr. Elmar Storck has warned of the Australian Open, given the extremely high levels of particulate matter in Melbourne, of long-term consequences for tennis professionals. “Depending on the disposition, a high level of physical exercise outdoors can lead to chronic symptoms and illnesses under these conditions,” said the physician from Pulheim to SID. “It may be the last drop that will overflow the barrel.” Storck emphasizes very clearly: “I would not play there.”
Numerous professionals had already complained about the local conditions and already felt the direct consequences of air pollution on the pitch. The Slovenian Davila Jakupovic gave up her match against the Swiss Stefanie Vögele at a score of 6: 4, 5: 6 after having previously dropped to her knees after a severe coughing fit.
“I’m angry and sad. I think it wasn’t fair because it wasn’t healthy for us,” she said.
Distressing scenes at the #AusOpen with Dalila Jakupovic forced to retire after a coughing fit. https://t.co/zrrLox4v1T pic.twitter.com/UYnVMQCY4U
– Herald Sun Sport (@heraldsunsport) January 14, 2020
Fine dust pollution is extreme
The impact of the devastating bushfire in Australian reached the first Grand Slam tournament of the season a few days before the start of the main rounds (from January 20). The fine dust pollution peaked on Tuesday at 393 micrograms (particle size less than ten micrometers / PM10). For comparison: At the Stuttgart measuring point Am Neckartor, one of the most heavily used traffic points in Germany, the maximum load this year was 37 micrograms, i.e. less than a tenth.
Exposing himself to such a burden for one day in Melbourne is not yet serious. “There are probably only short-term effects like coughing,” said the specialist, who pointed out the extreme stress for a competitive athlete: “Because of their quick and short breathing, they ventilate thousands of liters of air more into the lungs than normal people.”
As an athlete, Storck says, there are only a few ways to protect yourself. “There are face masks that protect down to the virus component. But everyone has to decide for themselves whether they would use it on the court,” said Storck, “I would try it out.” He would generally welcome the entire tournament to be moved to the hall, but only “if the filters are good”.
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