Carlos Alcaraz expressed frustration during the Australian Open final against Novak Djokovic after tournament officials decided to partially close the roof at Rod Laver Arena. The decision was made during the interval between the second and third sets due to the threat of rain and high winds.
The Spanish star, who had just won the second set 6-2 to level the match, approached chair umpire John Blom to voice his displeasure. “Why is it closing? The player doesn’t know that, you know what I mean?” he was heard saying. He later spoke with tournament referee Wayne McEwen, shaking his head in apparent annoyance.
Tennis Australia bosses opted to shut the roof partially to protect the court from potential rainfall and strong winds, but chose not to close it completely to maintain the outdoor nature of the event. The windier conditions were seen as favouring Alcaraz over Djokovic.
Former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash supported Alcaraz, telling BBC Radio 5 Live: “I agree with Carlos. If it's not raining, open it. Carlos is very upset about it.” Tim Henman also questioned the decision, while John McEnroe argued for a fully closed roof to maintain the highest level of play.
Despite the controversy, Alcaraz went on to win the match 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5, becoming the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam.
