MELBOURNE: Australian Open organizers suspended play Saturday in Melbourne because of extreme heat forecast to hit 40C, before some matches resumed under roofs.
Among the matches held up was the third-round clash between defending champion Jannik Sinner and the American Eliot Spizzirri at Rod Laver Arena.
It resumed after about 10 minutes following the closure of the roof.
“Play is suspended for all matches and practice on outside courts,” the tournament said on X.
Roofs on the courts that have them “will close and remain closed for the remainder of the match.”
Players, spectators and officials roasted on day seven at Melbourne Park.
The tournament has a Heat Stress Scale of 1-5, with five the highest.
It hit five in the early afternoon, prompting the suspension.
Play suspended at Australian Open over extreme heat: organizers
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Play suspended at Australian Open over extreme heat: organizers
- Among the matches held up was the third-round clash between defending champion Jannik Sinner and the American Eliot Spizzirri at Rod Laver Arena
Barcelona midfielder Fermín López to extend contract through 2031
- Fermín was close to a move to Chelsea last summer, but stayed at Barcelona
- Barcelona called the new deal with Fermín a “strategic decision”
BARCELONA: Barcelona and breakout midfielder Fermín López have agreed to extend his contract through June 2031, the Spanish club said Friday.
The 22-year-old Fermín is one of the club’s top young talents, along with Lamine Yamal and Pedri González.
Fermín was close to a move to Chelsea last summer, but stayed at Barcelona and has remained a versatile member of Hansi Flick’s side thanks to his scoring instinct.
He has netted 10 goals this season, including five in the Champions League, along with making 11 assists despite not always starting.
Barcelona called the new deal with Fermín a “strategic decision.”
Fermín joined Barcelona when he was 13. His previous contract was to expire in 2029.
Fermín has only made five appearances for Spain but is expected to be part of their World Cup team this summer.
