Australian Open Record Attendance
The Australian Open recorded its highest-ever attendance on the opening day of the main draw, with 73,235 visitors on Sunday. This figure surpassed the previous record of 68,883, set on a middle Saturday in 2019. The Monday day session also established a new record, drawing 68,687 people, an increase from 59,621 in the previous year.
Operational Adjustments Implemented
Following reports of long queues at security and court entry points on Sunday and Monday morning, tournament organizers deployed additional staff at the gates. This action led to a reduction in queuing times by Monday lunchtime. To manage capacity, the sale of ground passes was temporarily paused on Sunday. Tennis Australia recommended that attendees pre-book tickets and download them before arriving at the venue.
Infrastructure Developments and Future Concepts
Recent years have included investments in developing the northern and western areas of the Melbourne Park precinct. These efforts aimed to increase capacity and offer a greater variety of activities. A newly expanded courtside bar connected to elevated viewing stands has been at full capacity. Additionally, a new shade structure, providing seating and a large screen, was introduced to offer relief during temperatures that reached 30 degrees Celsius.
Melbourne Park is preparing to announce its next phase of development. Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia, has suggested concepts such as sinking courts below ground level. This approach is intended to improve spectator access to outside courts, which currently have limited capacity and may require queueing for entry.