Even after indoor practice, Tsitsipas 'coughed a lot' in toxic Melbourne air

Stefas Tsitsipas said he was left coughing and h trouble breathing even after practising indoors at Australian Open, where build-up has been dominated by fears about toxic smoke from bushfires. Greek world number six, a major contender for first Grand Slam of year, said Saturday that he h been excited about coming to Melbourne -- until he saw "smoke over city" as his plane came in to land.

"I was like, 'What is this?'" said 21-year-old, who stunned Roger Federer last year en route to Australian Open semi-finals.

"First two days here were pretty unusual... I went to practise for around one, one-and-a-half hours.

"After I practised indoors I felt really b with my lungs." Tsitsipas, who capped a breakthrough 2019 by winning season-ending ATP Finals, ded: "I'm feeling okay w, but I was a bit concerned.

"I was coughing a lot h troubles breathing for a couple of hours." Air quality in Melbourne was among worst on planet on Tuesday and Wednesday, and Australian Open organisers were strongly criticised for pushing ahe with qualifying matches.

On Saturday, two days before main draw begins, air quality in city was rated 'moderate'. Rain is forecast on Monday -- which should help clear air -- and Tsitsipas hopes re will be repeat of discomfort he felt. "It's getting better day by day. I h a practice session today as well," he said. "It's much different than it was when I first came."