Some unusual news from Brisbane today…
Former US Open champion Dominic Thiem’s had an uncommon battle ahead of him as his qualifying game vs James McCabe (Australia) was suspended for around 40 minutes today. The reason? A very poisonous snake was seen near courtside and spectators.
James McCabe had just won the first set 6-2 when the snake, from what we’ve heard, an eastern brown snake, was spotted near some electrical wires near tennis fans on the side of the court.
The match was halted until eventually a “snake catcher” arrived and managed to get it into a bag.
Eastern brown snakes are very poisonous and their bite and venom can result in progressive paralysis and uncontrollable bleeding. It’s actually one of Australia’s most deadly reptiles.
Thiem commented after the match:
“I really love animals, especially exotic ones,” Thiem said. “But they said it was a really poisonous snake and it was close to the ball kids, so it was a really dangerous situation.”
Thiem then went on to win the match after having to save three match points before winning the second set in tiebreak. He then won the deciding set for a 2-6, 7-6 (4), 6-4 win.