Australian Open 2024 represents a historic Sunday start and 15th day of competition

The Australian Open will start on a Sunday for the first time in 2024, making the tournament a 15-day event, organizers have announced.

With data showing matches are now longer, the move to a Sunday start in Melbourne is intended to help alleviate the pressure on late evening finishes for both players and fans.

“We have listened to player and fan feedback and are pleased to provide a solution to minimize late arrivals while continuing to provide a fair and equitable schedule on the stadium courts,” said Craig Tiley, tournament director of the Australian Open.

“The extra day will achieve this, improving 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 incredible tennis, entertainment, food and family fun .

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

Tournament organizers have confirmed that day sessions at Rod Laver Arena and Margaret Court Arena will now feature a minimum of two matches, instead of three, to limit the chance of late finishes.

Night sessions will continue to feature a minimum of two matches and the John Cain Arena schedule will also remain the same.