The Australian Open is here and tennis’ stars gather for the first Grand Slam of the year. There have been concerns over the air quality in Melbourne following recent bushfires but tournament organisers are confident the event will run as scheduled.
Australian Open director, Craig Tiley, said: “There is a lot of speculation about the Australian Open not happening, or starting later.
“The Australian Open is happening.”
Novak Djokovic arrives as the reigning men’s champion but he can expect stiff competition in the usual form of Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer.
Andy Murray was due to make his return to Grand Slam singles tennis but has suffered an injury “setback” and needs to “work through that before competing”.
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The Scot added: “I’ve worked so hard to get myself into a situation where I can play at the top level and I’m gutted I’m not going to be able to play.”
Naomi Osaka will defend her crown in the women’s tournament, while Serena Williams targets a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title.
Williams hasn’t won a Grand Slam since her 2017 victory in Melbourne.
However, the American enters the Australian Open in fine form, having won the Auckland International last week.
A subscription starts at £4.99 a month or £39.99 for the year, however, there is a way to watch the action for free.
Amazon Prime Video customers can take advantage of a seven-day free trial for the Eurosport Player.
If you don’t have already Amazon Prime, a 30-day free trial is on offer for new subscribers.
Alternatively, additional streaming of Australian Open matches is also available at no extra cost via selected UK betting sites.
