There were scary scenes well before the start of play at the Australian Open, when a ball girl collapsed during the official opening ceremony.

Oh a hot and muggy Melbourne morning, the girl collapsed while holding the Aboriginal flag in a guard of honour.

Australian tennis legend John Newcombe was being interviewed when cameras caught the moment she passed out in the background.

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Tennis Australia officials, police and St John Ambulance volunteers immediately sprung into action to provide first aid.

After she was assessed on the ground, she was helped into a wheelchair and wheeled away.

The opening ceremony was paused while the girl was attended to, but resumed shortly after.

Other dignitaries in attendance included the acting Victorian premier Ben Carroll and Tennis Australia chief executive and tournament director Craig Tiley.

A Tennis Australia spokesperson confirmed the girl is “absolutely fine”.

Weather has continued to be a focus on day one, with play on the outdoor courts suspended around midday after a heavy rain shower soaked the courts.