Simona Halep has never won the Australian Open. Along with the US Open, this is one of the only big titles it lacks in its history. Finalist in 2018, the Romanian is among the favorites this year. In preparation for the first Major of the year, the world number 2 played the Gippsland Trophy, with a rather mixed record. After beating Potapova and Siegemund, Halep was sharply beaten by Alexandrova (33e world player), 6–2 6–1.
She explains this drop in shape by a physical problem due to … air conditioning:
« I had a little trouble with my lower back from the air conditioning. The muscle froze a bit. But I had a treatment last night (Friday) so I’m better now. It is not dangerous. I’m used to it happens when it’s cold. I had a similar treatment last year at Roland Garros because it was cold outside. So I’m not very worried, but I take care of it ».
Posted on Saturday February 6, 2021 at 18:16
