Australian Open 2023: When is the draw, when does it start and how to watch on TV in the UK

Preparations are under way ahead of the first grand slam event of 2023 in Australia. Many of the players competing have arrived in the country and are taking part in warm-up events as they fine-tune their games.

All eyes will be on Novak Djokovic as he returns to the tournament. The 21-time major winner was deported last year by the government after entering the country on a visa that he thought qualified him for an exemption from Covid-19 vaccination.

He was banned from returning for three years but Australia has since lifted its requirement for visitors to show proof of vaccination status and a new government confirmed last month Djokovic could again legally enter the country.

“Now my focus is here, on Adelaide, try to do well in this tournament,” Djokovic told reporters after he outclassed Constant Lestienne in his first singles match since returning to Australia at the Adelaide International.

“Obviously Melbourne, Grand Slam, it’s different… so many players, both on the women and men’s side.

“I’ll be there also a week before my first match, as I normally do, training, getting used to the difference in the conditions and the speed of the court… let’s see. I hope I’ll be received well.”

When is the Australian Open? 

The tournament begins at Melbourne Park on Monday, January 16 and will finish on Sunday, January 29. 

When is the Australian Open draw?

The draw will take place on Thursday, January 12

Australian Open men’s singles main draw entry list

Australian Open women’s singles main draw entry list

How to watch the Australian Open 2023 on TV

Eurosport has the broadcasting rights to live action from Melbourne.

Alternatively, bookmark this page and you can return to follow all the key games on our dedicated live blogs.

Latest news

Andy Murray made an unhappy start to 2023 as his preparations for the Australian Open began with a straight-sets defeat to Sebastian Korda at the Adelaide International.

Korda, who at 22 is 13 years Murray’s junior, had won their only previous meeting at the 2022 Gijon Open.

The 6ft 5in American, ranked 33 in the world and 16 places higher than the British No 4, repeated that victory with a 7-6 (3), 6-3 success in one hour and 56 minutes.

How much does the Australian Open winner receive?

The Australian Open total prize pool is $76.5 million, up 3.4 per cent on 2022. The singles champions will each take home $2.975m, so just over £2.47m.

Who are the defending champions?

Ashleigh Barty beat Danielle Collins to end a 44-year drought for the home nation by winning the Australian Open.

While Rafael Nadal fought back from two sets down to defeat Daniil Medvedev and win his 21st grand slam title.

What are the latest odds?

Men’s singles:

• Novak Djokovic 11/0
• Carlos Alcaraz 11/2
• Daniil Medvedev 7/1
• Nick Kyrgios 10/1
• Rafael Nadal 12/1

Women’s singles:

• Iga Swiatek 13/8
• Ons Jabeur 12/1
• Caroline Garcia 12/1
• Aryna Sabalenka 12/1
• Emma Raducanu 33/1

Odds correct as of January 2