A professional tennis match in Brisbane was abruptly halted as a deadly snake made its way onto the court, creating a terrifying situation for both players and spectators. Dominic Thiem, a former US Open champion, was competing against James McCabe when the venomous eastern brown snake was spotted at the side of the court. The match had to be paused as a professional snake catcher was summoned to safely remove the dangerous reptile.
Thiem, who has an appreciation for exotic animals, acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, recognizing it as a particularly hazardous scenario, especially with ball kids nearby. The eastern brown snake is known for its potent venom, which includes a powerful neurotoxin that affects the nervous system.
Local expert Lucas Perrett, who captured the snake, shared a lighthearted exchange with his wife about the incident, providing a touch of levity to the otherwise tense situation. Despite being initially a set down to McCabe, Thiem managed to save three match points and eventually emerged victorious with a 2-6, 7-6, 6-4 win.
Thiem’s triumph in the match was a much-needed boost for the 30-year-old player, who had been grappling with a wrist injury, causing a drop in his world rankings. His win in the qualifiers brings him one step closer to securing a spot in the Australian Open.
The incident at the Brisbane International serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of live sports events, where even the presence of a deadly snake can disrupt the proceedings. It also underscores the importance of swift and professional action in handling such situations to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
As the tennis community awaits the outcome of Thiem’s journey in the Australian Open qualifiers, the snake incident in Brisbane will undoubtedly be etched in the memory of players and spectators as a truly unforgettable and unexpected moment in the world of professional sports.