Jannik Sinner’s Controversial Win at the Australian Open Thanks to Heat Rule

The world No. 2 escaped after benefitting from a ‘cooling off’ period in the third set

American Eliot Spizzirri is seeking clarification regarding the heat rule’s timing, which interrupted his momentum during his third-round clash against Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open. Leading 3-1 in the third set after splitting the first two sets, Spizzirri was taken aback when Sinner, who struggled with cramps, received a break due to the high temperature. Officials halted the game as the heat stress scale reached 5.0, necessitating the closure of the roof to provide relief.

Sinner utilized the 10-minute pause to rehydrate and recover, reviving his energies before claiming victory with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4. Spizzirri expressed astonishment at the timing of the enforced break, stating, “I’m not going to sit here and blame the rules because they are there for everyone, but I was just astonished at the timing of the scale hitting 5.0 exactly when it did.”

The physical recalibration brought Sinner back on track, allowing him to take the third set after the break. Spizzirri noted, “It felt like he was given a lifeline when he was physically finished and as a player, that is a very tough pill to swallow when you have the momentum.”

Australian Open’s Heat Stress Scale

Scale	Description
1.0	Temperate playing conditions
2.0	Increase hydration
3.0	Apply cooling strategies
4.0	Extended break
5.0	Suspension of play

Sinner, a two-time defending champion, fought through the match, showcasing determination even after losing numerous service games earlier in the contest. “I struggled physically today and got lucky with the heat rule. As time passed, I felt better and better,” Sinner admitted. He is set to face fellow Italian, Luciano Darderi, in the upcoming round.

Ben Shelton Unstoppable

Meanwhile, Ben Shelton is also advancing, yet to drop a set as he eyes his first grand slam title.