Emma Raducanu to play at this year's Australian Open Photo: Getty Images/Dave Rowland
Emma Raducanu advances to main draw tournament of the Australian Open after American Lauren Davis dropped out due to a shoulder injury.
Although the Briton had 'special rating' status due to her time on the sidelines with wrist and ankle injuries, this was not high enough for direct participation in the first major of the year and meant she faced the prospect of qualifying by retracing the path that she qualified to win the US Open in 2021.
But the withdrawals of Karolina Muchova, Petra Kvitova, Irina-Camelia Begu, Katie McNally and now Davis mean the 21-year-old will be in next week's draw .
When does the Australian Open start?
The tournament will begin on Sunday, January 14th. This is the first Sunday start in the history of the tournament.
“We have listened to feedback from players and fans and are pleased to offer a solution to minimize tardiness while continuing to provide a fair and equitable schedule on the stadium courts,” said Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley.
“ The extra day will achieve this goal, improving the schedule for both fans and players. The first round will now last three days instead of two, also giving fans an extra day of incredible tennis, entertainment, food and family fun.”
When is the Australian Open draw?
The Australian Open singles draw will take place on Thursday, January 11.
When will the Australian Open final take place?
The women's final will take place on Saturday, January 27. The men's final will take place the following day (January 28).
How to watch the Australian Open on TV in the UK
In the UK, Eurosport has the rights to broadcast live events from Melbourne. Watch on Discovery+, Entertainment & The Sports Pass costs £6.99 per month or £59.99 per year.
How to watch the Australian Open on TV in the US
ESPN has the rights to broadcast the tournament.
What is the prize fund Australian Open?
The total prize money for this year's Australian Open is a record, with a 13 percent increase over 2023. £46.3 million will be shared between the participants, with each winner receiving £1.68 million.
“We have increased the prize money in every round of the Australian Open, significantly increasing the amount of prize money in qualifying and the first rounds of singles and doubles,” Tiley said. “We want to ensure that Australia remains the launch pad for the global tennis season and that players and their teams have everything they need to help them perform at their best and continue to enjoy a happy tournament.”
Which UK players will be participating?
Cameron Norrie, Daniel Evans, Andy Murray, Katie Boulter, Jack Draper and Jodie Burrage are on the list for the tournament.
Will Emma Raducanu play at the Australian Open?
Raducanu will play at the Australian Open after Lauren Davis, Carolina Muchova, Petra Kvitova, Irina-Camelia Begu and Katie McNally withdrew in the tournament, which opened up a spot for them in the tournament. Main draw, which meant she did not have to qualify.
Who are the defending champions?
Novak Djokovic won the men's singles title for a record 10th time last year after defeating Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Arina Sabalenka won her first Grand Slam title in the women's bracket, defeating Elena Rybakina in three sets.
Recent Comments