More fans put in the shade on Court 3 for 2020 Australian Open
Another upgrade at Melbourne Park has been unveiled, which will see provide welcome relief if temperatures soar during next month’s Australian Open.
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Almost 3000 tennis fans will be put in the shade at next month’s Australian Open thanks to the construction of a new roof over the stand at Show Court 3.
The new circular structure was completed on Monday on the court which becomes the fourth location to provide shelter from Melbourne’s sometimes blistering January sun.
Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and Melbourne Arena all have retractable roofs.
The court next to Garden Square is a popular location for tennis buffs to see doubles, legends and rising stars for the two-week tournament which starts on January 20.
The $1 million project to install 1864sq m of shade fabric to cover 2892 seats has taken about five weeks.
Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said the tournament was improving facilities for fans every year.
“We are creating an environment that makes it more comfortable for fans,’’ Mr Tiley said.
Earlier this year, Open spectators sweltered through five days of above 30C temperatures including a scorching 42.8C on the second Friday.
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Next month’s tournament heralds the first year the Open precinct and activities will stretch from Richmond Station to Fed Square.
A new practice village with increased services for players and more access for fans will be open at the eastern end of the precinct.
The 15 days of music at the AO Live Stage, which also has shade sail, will start with Girls Day Out starring Jessica Mauboy on January 19, the evening before play begins.