Sabalenka Shines in Scorching Melbourne, Zverev Advances Amid Heatwave

Aryna Sabalenka advanced to the Australian Open semi-finals after defeating Iva Jovic in intense heat, while Alexander Zverev struggled against Learner Tien but ultimately prevailed. The extreme temperatures led to enforced pauses and the closure of roofs, impacting attendance. Players like Carlos Alcaraz benefited from cooler evening matches.

Aryna Sabalenka kept her composure under Melbourne's scorching sun to defeat American teenager Iva Jovic, advancing to the Australian Open semi-finals on Tuesday. Under the Rod Laver Arena roof, Alexander Zverev briefly sweated before clinching his spot in the next round.

Top seed Carlos Alcaraz was spared the harshest conditions of the year's opening Grand Slam, set to play in the evening session against Australian Alex de Minaur. Meanwhile, Coco Gauff faced Elina Svitolina for a semi-final position. Sabalenka delivered a commanding 6-3 6-0 victory over her 18-year-old opponent under the sweltering conditions, with the roof left open due to the 'Heat Stress Scale' guidelines.

After her 89-minute triumph, tournament officials activated the extreme heat policy once temperatures soared past 40 Celsius (104F). This decision halted play on outer courts and closed roofs on main courts. 'It was hot out there, but as women, we're stronger,' Sabalenka quipped. Attendance dipped significantly to 21,226, compared to Monday's 50,010, as fans chose to avoid the blistering conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)