Sweep helps Sharapova survive hot conditions

MELBOURNE, Australia -- Top-seeded Maria Sharapova got another taste of the elements, ignoring the saunalike conditions in Rod Laver Arena to advance to the second week of the Australian Open.

While often heavy rain prevented play on outside courts, the roof on Rod Laver Arena was closed Saturday for Sharapova's 6-3, 6-1 win over 30th-seeded Tathiana Garbin in the third round.

The air conditioning wasn't working and the players were already sweating profusely after their warmup and spectators fanned themselves with programs.

"I guess I can say I'm still lucky to be in the tournament after my first round," Sharapova said. "It is only going to get tougher for me."

Sharapova, the U.S. Open champion, had to play in searing temperatures in her opening win over Camille Pin, saying the heat made her delusional as she gave up a 5-0 lead in the third set before hanging on to win.

At the same time, new matches on outside courts were delayed under the tournament's Extreme Heat Policy as temperatures headed above 100 degrees.

Her second-round win over Anastassia Rodionova was in cool and overcast conditions.

Asked if the atmosphere was more cozy with the roof closed, Sharapova thought there'd be better ways to describe the less than ideal conditions.

"I wouldn't go cozy. I've felt cozier in my life," she said. "It's a little humid ... (but) I like it indoors."