Cool Open Series courts, or postpone

[ochi]

Once again, the health and lives of professional tennis players were put at risk late Sunday afternoon, Aug. 9, at the Legg Mason Classic, just as they are every summer in other cities in the U.S. Open Series. The temperature in Washington, D.C., was said to be 93 F, but Brad Gilbert said early on that the court temperature was up to 112. Later, he said sent it went to 129.9 (!), and still later, down to 106.

Juan Martin Del Potro sat with his head down, almost unable to speak when it was over, and Andy Roddick look exhausted. Many of you saw it. I'm guessing that they had to be treated intravenously for dehydration after the ceremony.

Darren Cahill remarked that play would have been postponed at the Australian Open, because its heat/humidity index would require it. But not here! Play on, through dizzyness, the verge of cramping, and chance of heat stroke, maybe even heart attack. Too much money is at stake for the tournaments and TV stations. Get out there and stay out there.

Here is an idea to prevent court heat retention and radiation -- tear up the courts, install cooling pipes and repave. If condensation becomes an issue, adjust the amount of cooling to prevent it.

If any heating/cooling experts are reading this, please respond -- would this work, or not?

You USPTA and USPTR people, would you endorse this, or at least call for an Australian rule?