AusLeisure

In a significant first, the Australian Open 2024 will start on Sunday - becoming a 15-day event for the first time.

Announced by organisers today, the extension of the tournament is based on data showing matches are now longer - with the move to a Sunday start designed to help alleviate the pressure on late night finishes for both the players and the fans.

Revealing the change, Australian Open Tournament Director, Craig Tiley advised "we’ve listened to feedback from the players and fans and are excited to deliver a solution to minimise late finishes while continuing to provide a fair and equitable schedule on the stadium courts.

“The additional day will achieve this, benefiting scheduling for fans and players alike. The first round will now be played over three days instead of two, also giving fans an extra day of unbelievable tennis, entertainment, food and family fun.

“Every year our team works hard to bring fans an event that feels new and exciting, and this is another opportunity to grow what is already the biggest annual sporting event in the world in January.”

The Sunday start increases the number of Australian Open sessions in the three main arenas at Melbourne Park from 47 to 52.

The day session at Rod Laver Arena and Margaret Court Arena will feature a minimum of two matches, down from three, to limit the potential of late finishes. Night sessions will continue to feature a minimum of two matches and the John Cain Arena schedule also remains the same.

Australian Open 2024, supported by major partner Kia in association with Emirates, Luzhou Laojiao and Rolex, will take place at Melbourne Park from 14th to 28th January next year.

Tickets go on sale as of Thursday 12th October 2023.

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