Australian Open - Day 1 (1st round)

Australian Open 2027: The Start of the "Happy Slam" in Melbourne

The Australian Open's main draw gets underway on 17 January 2027 – the fourth consecutive year with a Sunday start, a scheduling move that has proven a genuine crowd-puller. Day 1 is unlike any other day of the tournament: all 128 women and all 128 men in the singles draws take to the courts for their first-round matches on the very same day, spread across every court in the precinct. If you want to experience the sheer scale and variety of Grand Slam tennis in a single visit, Day 1 is the day to be there.

Defending champions return under the Melbourne sun

2027 promises plenty of drama: Carlos Alcaraz arrives as defending champion after beating Novak Djokovic in the 2026 final to complete his career Grand Slam. On the women's side, Elena Rybakina defends her first Australian Open title, won in 2026 against Aryna Sabalenka. How convincingly the defending champions open their campaigns is, for many fans, one of the most-watched storylines of the opening day.

Melbourne Park: home of the "Happy Slam"

The Australian Open earns its "Happy Slam" nickname for good reason — Melbourne Park's relaxed, summery atmosphere sets it apart from the rest of the Grand Slam calendar. Rod Laver Arena, John Cain Arena and Margaret Court Arena all have retractable roofs that can close within minutes when needed, whether for Melbourne's notorious summer heat or a passing shower. That makes the Australian Open one of the few Grand Slams where weather rarely delays play for long.

Travel to Melbourne with Event Breaks

For anyone wanting to experience the opening day of the Australian Open in person, Event Breaks offers travel packages including tickets and hotel accommodation in Melbourne. Beyond the court, the city is well worth exploring — from coffee culture in the CBD's famous laneways to a stroll along the Yarra River or a day trip out to the Great Ocean Road, Melbourne regularly ranks among the world's most liveable cities.

• Watch 256 players begin their tournament on the very same day.
• Enjoy Melbourne's world-famous coffee culture and laneways.
• Combine your tennis trip with a day trip to the Great Ocean Road.

Book your travel package with Event Breaks today and be there for the start of the "Happy Slam".