MEAA calls upon Australian Open organisers to consider players’ welfare

 MEAA, the union representing sports professionals, is concerned about the safety of tennis players being required to compete in the in the extreme heat during the Australian Open.

Yesterday Canadian tennis player Frank Dancevic fainted in 41 degree heat after reportedly hallucinating during his match. Peng Shuai of China also felt the heat, vomiting on the side of the court.

MEAA is also concerned for all staff working at the Australian Open after a ball boy collapsed yesterday.

Malcolm Tulloch, director of the entertainment, crew and sport section of MEAA today criticised the Australian Open organisers for not prioritising the health, safety and welfare of its players and staff.

“Its time we moved away from the gladiatorial colosseum view of sports people battling for their lives in the name of entertainment. These players’ lives are in danger when heat wave conditions prevail and the organisers have a responsibility to consider their welfare. They seriously need to consider postponing the tournament until the conditions are safer,” says Tulloch.