Key posts
What’s on today
We’ve got a cracker first day on the cards.
First, let’s take a look at the main events happening on Rod Laver Arena.
It’s a big one first up with one of the men’s singles top contenders Jannik Sinner opening his Aus Open campaign against Botic van de Zandschulp before the outright men’s favourite Novak Djokovic plays Dino Prizmic (a tough day in the office for the Croatian).
In the women’s singles, former world No. 3 Maria Sakkari will face Nao Hibino before the defending champion Aryna Sabalenka takes on Ella Seidel.
Aryna Sabalenka at the Brisbane International.Credit: AP
Any Aussies in action today, you ask? Oh, you bet.
Our own Dane Sweeny will play Francisco Cerundolo in the men’s singles at John Cain Arena – followed by USA’ best Taylor Fritz against Facundo Diaz Acosta at night.
Home talent Adam Walton will face Matteo Arnaldi at Kia Arena (great for those with a ground pass), followed by Aussie Jason Kubler up against Daniel Elahi Galan.
And over on court 3, Australian Christopher O’Connell will take on Cristian Garin.
Which matches are you most looking forward to today? Let us know in the comments.
De Minaur takes on Raonic, Osaka faces Garcia
By Marc McGowan
Alex de Minaur will take a “why not now” approach to this year’s Australian Open as he prepares to try to meet his own – and the nation’s – heavy expectations.
The 10th seed starts against Canadian Milos Raonic and will almost certainly need to beat Russian fifth seed Andrey Rublev then his nemesis, world No.4 Jannik Sinner, to reach a first grand slam semi-final.
World No.10 Alex de Minaur practises at Melbourne Park on Thursday.Credit: Chris Hopkins
The women’s draw is similarly fascinating, with dual champion Naomi Osaka meeting No.16 seed Caroline Garcia, top seed Iga Swiatek facing 2020 winner Sofia Kenin and No.3 seed Elena Rybakina to do battle with former world No.1 Karolina Pliskova.
Everything you need to know about the Open
Hundreds of thousands of tennis fans are descending on Melbourne Park and Australia’s grand slam has something to offer everyone.
From watching the world’s best tennis stars, to being entertained and sampling the offerings of some of Melbourne’s best eateries courtside, a day at the Open promises to be memorable.
If you prefer to catch up on the action on a big screen elsewhere or the small screen at home, we’ve got you covered.
Here is a comprehensive guide of everything you need to know about the Open.
Millions churn through the crown jewel of Melbourne every year for sports and entertainment events at six major venues.Credit: Getty Images
Good morning
Good morning tennis fans and welcome to the official first day of the tournament!
We’ll have rolling live coverage of all the matches and key news from today until the men’s and women’s singles champions are crowned in just over two weeks’ time. But there’s a lot to happen before that.
So, let’s get to it. Many Aussies are in action today along with both defending champions Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka.
Big day ahead. Not long now until the thwack of tennis balls at lightning pace will be sounding out from Melbourne Park.
