Australian Open set for historic change, to begin on Sunday from 2024 to alleviate late night finish pressures

The upcoming Australian Open is set to become the first of its kind to last 15 days after new tournament dates were announced.

The competition, just like any other major event, usually lasts 14 days but that is about to change in 2024.

Next year, the tournament will begin on a Sunday instead of a Monday and will last for 15 days for the first time.

Tournament Director Craig Tiley also confirmed the development in a statement posted on the official website.

“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,” Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said.

“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.”

Next year, in the men’s singles category, it will be Serbia’s Novak Djokovic who will be defending his title.

In the women’s singles category, it will be the current world number one Aryna Sabalenka who will be defending her crown.