Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev reiterated his call on Monday for the Australian Open to commence its night sessions earlier, following a series of recent matches that concluded after midnight at Melbourne Park, though he acknowledged that such changes were unlikely.
Medvedev said the late finishes at the year’s first Grand Slam, which begins on January 18 in Melbourne, were unjust to players, fans, and officials and did not benefit anyone.
However, he acknowledged that television networks’ priorities would prevent any alterations.
“It never will, because TV’s controlling everything and I think there is always a reason why it (starts at) 7:00 pm and not 6:00 pm,” said Medvedev, who has suffered from matches finishing in the early hours of the morning in his last two Australian Open appearances.
“And again, I’m happy to play the night session if I need to, and I would not cry about it,” he added.
The Australian Open hosts two matches during its evening sessions, which kick off at 7:00 pm on the main courts, and is infamously known for matches ending well past midnight.
In 2023, three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray’s five-hour and 45-minute duel with Thanasi Kokkinakis wrapped up at 4:05 am, prompting further calls for change.
In 2008, Lleyton Hewitt triumphed over Marcos Baghdatis in a match that concluded at 4:34 am, marking the latest finish in Grand Slam history.
Medvedev suggested starting matches at 6:00 pm to aim for earlier conclusions.
“It’s pretty much the same. People who really love tennis would like to see it at six because then they are almost sure to watch both matches.
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
