Andrea Petkovic collapsed during her Australian Open first round match (Image: Eurosport)The 31-year-old’s pulse and blood pressure were checked on court.
Petkovic, a former quarter finalist at the Australian open was leading her first round match when she succumbed to the blistering heat.
Having won the first set 7-6, she was trailing 4-3 in the second when she collapsed to the ground.
Medical officials raced onto Court 5 and checked the 31-year-old’s pulse and blood pressure.
Andrea Petkovic collapsed during her Australian Open first round match (Image: Eurosport)She consequently retired from the match and appeared wobbly when embracing opponent Begu for a brief hug.
Heat stroke is thought to be the cause of the incident, although it has yet to be officially confirmed.
Temperatures were expected to soar to about 36-37 Celsius on day one.
