Heating Up

Many Players Impacted By Aussie Open Heat

While much of the sports world is focusing its attention on Tampa for that important football game on Sunday, there is plenty of excitement halfway around the world at the Australian Open. The traditionally upset-prone event is one match away from seeing the latest chapter in the Federer-Nadal saga, while Serena Williams is set to play for her 10th career Grand Slam win. But the soaring temperatures Down Under are wreaking havoc, forcing organizers to invoke their Extreme Heat Policy. After several players retire from matches earlier in the week largely due to the record temperatures, officials finally decide to close the two retractable roofs at Melbourne Park. Not everyone is happy about the move, though -- Svetlana Kuznetsova is furious the roof was closed in the middle of her quarterfinal match with Serena. Regardless, it is clear something needed to be done to combat the stifling heat.

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In His Own Words
THE DAILY goes one-on-one with legendary Sports Illustrated writer Gary Smith. 

Party Time, Excellent!
Athletes, celebrities convene in Tampa as infamous Super Bowl parties kick off.