Sweltering Heat Challenges U.S. Open Athletes and Fans

The U.S. Open experienced extremely high temperatures on Wednesday, affecting both players and spectators. Athletes aimed for quick matches to escape the 90-degree heat. Madison Keys, Alexander Zverev, and Zheng Qinwen highlighted the impacts of the scorching conditions as they advanced to the next rounds.

Sweltering conditions gripped the U.S. Open on Wednesday, testing both spectators and competitors. Athletes aimed to wrap up their second-round matches quickly as temperatures soared past 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32.2°C) in the late afternoon at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

Madison Keys expressed relief after defeating Australian qualifier Maya Joint 6-4 6-0 in just 62 minutes at Arthur Ashe Stadium. "I just wanted to get on and get off," said the 2017 runner-up, setting up her next match with Belgian Elise Mertens.

German Alexander Zverev also appreciated the quick pace, beating French wildcard Alexandre Muller 6-4 7-6 6-1 at Louis Armstrong Stadium, setting up a match with Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry. Zverev described the heat's effect: "I was at some point very, very wet. The whole court was flooded from me, but I felt good physically."

Despite high temperatures being common at this major tournament, Wednesday's blazing sun tested everyone. Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen used an ice towel for relief during her 6-7(3) 6-1 6-2 win against Erika Andreeva. "The weather is too hot. But all the crowd is here suffering with me," said the Chinese seventh seed. Meanwhile, Andrey Rublev and Arthur Rinderknech resorted to ice towels during changeovers, with Rinderknech collapsing from exhaustion after a 37-shot rally.

(With inputs from agencies.)