The Australian Open will start on a Sunday in 2024, becoming a fifteen-day event in a bid to reduce the pressure on players and fans of late-night finishes.<\/p>\n
Calls have been growing to limit the finish times in a crowded schedule at the season-opening grand slam event in Melbourne.<\/p>\n
Five-time finalist Andy Murray this year played a near six-hour, five-set marathon against Thanasi Kokkinakis that did not reach its conclusion until past 4am, the former world number one describing the finish time as “ridiculously late”.<\/p>\n
The 2024 tournament has been scheduled to run from 14-28 January.<\/p>\n
The Sunday start will increase the number of sessions on Melbourne Park’s three showpiece courts of Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, and John Cain Arena from 47 to 52.<\/p>\n
Day sessions on Rod Laver and Margaret Court will feature a minimum of two matches, rather than three as previously, to limit the potential for late finishes.<\/p>\n
Night sessions will continue to feature a minimum of two matches.<\/p>\n
Tournament director Craig Tiley said the changes had come about after listening to feedback from players and fans to limit late finishes.<\/p>\n
“The additional day will achieve this, benefiting scheduling for fans and players alike,” he.<\/p>\n
“The first round will now be played over three days instead of two.”<\/p>\n