Australian Open set for historic Sunday start

The Australian Open is set for a historic 15 days of action this January, with this summer's main draw beginning on Sunday for the first time, giving fans more opportunities to enjoy the world-class tennis and entertainment on offer.

With data showing matches are now longer, the move to a Sunday start is designed to help alleviate the pressure on late-night finishes for both the players and the fans.

The world’s best tennis players will compete for $AU 86.5 million in prize money.

WHERE: Melbourne Park.

WHEN: 14-28 January

As always, DStv brings you all of the action on the SuperSport Tennis channel.

THE CONTENDERS

This year’s singles entry lists are headed by world No 1s Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek.

World No 2 Aryna Sabalenka returns to defend her 2023 title, as does Djokovic, who will target a record-extending 11th men's singles title.

COMEBACK KIDS

Naomi Osaka and Angelique Kerber are among the stars making comebacks at this year’s event.

The two former champions mounting a comeback at Melbourne Park using protected rankings for entry.

2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu is also returns after missing the last three grand slam tournaments through injury