The Australian Open will introduce daily limits on its popular low-cost ground passes for the first time in the tournament's history after crowding and long queues overshadowed parts of the 2026 edition in Melbourne. Organisers Tennis Australia announced on Tuesday that allocations of the A$49 ($34) tickets will be capped during the opening week of the 2027 tournament as demand for the season's first Grand Slam continues to soar.
The decision comes after the Australian Open smashed attendance records this year, drawing 1,368,043 spectators across its three-week schedule and cementing its status as the most-attended Grand Slam in tennis. The figure marked a sharp rise from the 1,218,831 fans who attended the 2025 edition and the 1,110,657 spectators in 2024.
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Ground passes, which allow fans to move freely around Melbourne Park and watch matches on outside courts, have long been regarded as the tournament's best-value ticket. Holders can also access popular venues such as John Cain Arena, which has earned the nickname "The People's Court" because of its accessibility to fans purchasing the cheapest tickets.
"This decision reflects the growing popularity of the AO and will help ensure fans are able to make the most of everything on offer across the precinct," Tennis Australia said in a statement.
RECORD CROWDS EXPOSE CHALLENGES AT MELBOURNE PARK
The need for tighter controls became evident during the opening days of the 2026 tournament, when thousands of spectators were left frustrated by long queues and confusion over ticket sales. Reuters reported that a record 73,235 people entered Melbourne Park on the first day session alone, eclipsing the previous mark of 68,883 set in 2019.
Crowding issues also affected access to several outside courts, with fans complaining about packed walkways and difficulties in securing seats for marquee matches. The problems highlighted the challenge facing organisers as the tournament's popularity continues to grow both in Australia and internationally.
The 2026 Australian Open concluded with Spain's Carlos Alcaraz winning the men's singles title and Kazakhstan's Elena Rybakina lifting the women's crown. With demand expected to be even stronger next year, Tennis Australia hopes the ticket cap will strike a balance between affordability and a better fan experience at Melbourne Park.
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Published By:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published On:
Jul 21, 2026 13:08 IST