Maria Sharapova of Russia struggles with the heat during the Australian Open. 

A FAN who wilted in scorching temperatures at the Australian Open is suing tennis chiefs for not providing enough shade.
Traralgon tennis lover Susan Carman, 57, claims she fell and suffered serious injuries as she moved to escape the sun during a sizzling Andy Murray match at ­Hisense Arena. The Latrobe Valley hospital worker claims there wasn’t enough cover as players and spectators suffered through a 40-degree day on January 17, 2013.
Her County Court claim alleges the Melbourne & Olympic Parks Trust (MOPT) was negligent because staff failed to shut the retractable roof.
Mrs Carman, who was at the match with some girlfriends, alleges she fell down some stairs in a grandstand as they sought a cooler spot.
Court documents list injuries including a fractured left ankle and shin, ligament damage, and scarring.
A dollar value for her claim is not specified, but court documents state it will include damages to cover lost income, suffering and to compensate family who cared for her.
Maurice Blackburn principal Dimi Ioannou said her client also carried mental scars.
“She was a tennis fan but she hasn’t returned since the accident. It’s been traumatic for her,” she said.
“We say Hisense Arena have breached their duty of care in this case by failing to close the roof.
“Tennis is a popular sport. It’s important we keep patrons safe when they are attending.”
Defence lawyers are yet to file paperwork, and MOPT spokesman Joe Fennessy said he was unable to comment on specifics.
“Melbourne & Olympic Parks takes the comfort and safety of patrons extremely seriously, with a significant amount of shade provided across the precinct for the Australian Open — an outdoor event,” he said.
The matter is listed for a five-day County Court trial in February 2016.
Tournament officials and emergency services had urged players and spectators to take cover from the heat on the day.