Australian Open 2024: When is it, how to watch in UK and will Emma Raducanu play?
Rafael Nadal has confirmed he will make his return to tennis, following a year out, at the Brisbane International later this month.
The 22-time grand slam champion has not played a competitive match since suffering a hip injury during his second-round defeat by Mackenzie McDonald at the Australian Open in January.
Having initially hoped the lay-off may only be a few weeks, Nadal admitted in May that he was staring at the end of his career and that he hoped to be able to play a final year on tour in 2024.
Nadal said: “After a year away from competition, it’s time to comeback. It will be in Brisbane the first week of January. I’ll see you there.”
It’s hoped the 37-year-old, currently 663 in the world, will also be able to compete at the first major of the year in Melbourne.
How to watch the Australian Open on TV in the UK
In the UK, Eurosport has the broadcasting rights to live action from Melbourne. To watch on discovery+, an Entertainment & Sport pass is £6.99/month or £59.99/year.
How to watch the Australian Open on TV in the US
ESPN has the broadcasting rights to show the tournament.
When does the Australian Open start?
The tournament begins on Sunday, January 14. It is the first Sunday start in the tournament’s history.
“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.”
When do the Australian Open finals take place?
The women’s final is on Saturday, January 27. The men’s final is the following day (January 28).
What is the Australian Open prize money?
The total prize pool is yet to be confirmed but in 2023, it was $76.5 million, up 3.4 per cent on 2022. The singles champions took home $2.975 million, so just over £2.47 million.
Which British players will be involved?
The entry list is yet to be confirmed but Katie Boulter, Cameron Norrie, Dan Evans, Andy Murray, Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu are all expected to play.
Will Emma Raducanu play at the Australian Open?
Raducanu has not played since undergoing surgery on her wrists and ankle. In November, it was announced she had pulled out of an exhibition, scheduled for the start of this month.
Who are the defending champions?
Last year, Novak Djokovic claimed the men’s singles title for a record extending 10th time after beating Stefanos Tsitsipas.
In the women’s draw, Aryna Sabalenka claimed her first grand slam title when she defeated Elena Rybakina in three sets.
