The Australian Open is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated tennis tournaments in the world. It attracts top players from around the globe, captivating tennis enthusiasts with its display of skill, athleticism, and drama on the court. As such, the question of where this grand slam event will be televised is of great interest to fans worldwide. With the increasing globalization of sports media, the Australian Open has found its way onto the screens of numerous households through various channels and streaming platforms, ensuring that fans can catch all the action, no matter where they are located.
Broadcast in the United States
ESPN Networks: In the United States, ESPN is the primary broadcaster of the Australian Open. ESPN+, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes provide comprehensive coverage of the tournament. The coverage begins with the qualifying matches and extends throughout all the rounds, including the finals. For example, the 2024 Australian Open had live coverage starting on January 13th at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and midnight ET on ESPN2. Day-session matches were aired on ESPN linear networks during prime time ET, while night-session matches were shown at 3 a.m. ET. In total, ESPN aired more than 240 hours of live coverage on its linear networks, which was a significant increase of 35% compared to 2023.
Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV is another option for American viewers to watch the Australian Open. It offers ESPN and ESPN2, along with ESPN+ at no extra cost. Additionally, starting from January 11, 2024, it added the Tennis Channel to its sports add-on, providing even more tennis coverage. This makes it an attractive option for those who want to watch not only the Australian Open but also other tennis events throughout the year.
Fubo: Fubo also offers coverage of the Australian Open. It provides a solid seven-day free trial for all its base plans, allowing viewers to watch the tournament without having to pay immediately. By subscribing to Fubo’s elite plan or higher, viewers can also access the Tennis Channel along with ESPN and ESPN2, enhancing their viewing experience.
Broadcast in Australia
The Nine Network: In Australia, the Nine Network broadcasts the Australian Open on free-to-air television. The matches are shown across its channels, including Channel 9, 9 Gem, and occasionally 9 Go! The network usually prioritizes matches involving Australians or other notable players, ensuring that local fans can cheer on their favorite players. This allows a wide audience in Australia to enjoy the tournament without the need for a paid subscription.
Stan Sport and 9Now: Viewers in Australia can also watch the Australian Open on smart TVs via Stan Sport and 9Now through apps or devices like Chromecast. These platforms provide an alternative way to catch the action, especially for those who prefer streaming or want to watch on a larger screen. Stan Sport offers additional features and content related to the tournament, enhancing the viewing experience for tennis fans.
Broadcast in China
Iqiyi Sports: In China, Iqiyi Sports is the exclusive broadcaster of the Australian Open. It has been streaming the tournament for several years, allowing Chinese tennis fans to watch all the matches in high definition. Fans can access the coverage through the Iqiyi Sports app, Iqiyi Sports channel, Iqiyi Sports PC end, web end, and 奇异果 TV end. In 2024, Iqiyi Sports provided 1080p HD live broadcasts, along with a team of experienced commentators, including Hu Litao, Li Jiaming, Fang Zhen, Zhang Wenyue, Chen Chi, Liu Xingyu, Li Donglin, Qiu Chao, and Liu Hongxin, who provided in-depth analysis and commentary throughout the tournament.
Social Media and Online Platforms: In addition to Iqiyi Sports, social media platforms and other online channels also play an important role in covering the Australian Open in China. Many sports news websites, blogs, and social media accounts provide live updates, highlights, and analysis of the tournament, allowing fans to stay informed and engaged even if they are unable to watch the live broadcasts. This multi-platform coverage helps to build excitement and interest in the Australian Open among Chinese tennis fans.
Broadcast in Europe
Eurosport: Eurosport is a major broadcaster of the Australian Open in Europe. It offers extensive coverage of the tournament, including live matches, highlights, and analysis. Tennis fans in Europe can tune in to Eurosport to watch their favorite players compete in Melbourne. The network’s coverage is available in multiple languages, making it accessible to a wide range of viewers across different countries.
Local Broadcasters: In addition to Eurosport, some local broadcasters in Europe also air the Australian Open. For example, in the United Kingdom, the BBC may show highlights or provide coverage of certain key matches. These local broadcasters often complement Eurosport’s coverage, providing additional viewing options for fans in specific regions.
Broadcast in Other Regions
Tennis Channel International: Tennis Channel International broadcasts the Australian Open in many countries outside of the United States. It offers live coverage, analysis, and other related programming, bringing the excitement of the tournament to tennis fans around the world. The channel is available in various languages, depending on the region, ensuring that fans can enjoy the commentary in their preferred language.
Regional Sports Networks: In some regions, regional sports networks may also have the rights to broadcast the Australian Open. These networks may provide coverage tailored to the local audience, focusing on players or storylines that are of particular interest in that area. For example, in Asia, certain sports networks may highlight the performances of Asian players in the tournament.
Online Streaming Platforms
AO Radio: For those who prefer to listen to the action rather than watch it, AO Radio provides audio coverage of the Australian Open. It can be accessed through SiriusXM and online, allowing fans to stay updated on the matches while on the go or doing other activities.
Official Australian Open Website and App: The official Australian Open website and app also offer streaming options for fans. They provide live scores, match schedules, and in some cases, live streaming of certain matches or courts. This allows fans to have direct access to the tournament’s content and stay connected with the latest developments.
Conclusion
The Australian Open is broadcast on a wide range of channels and platforms across the globe, ensuring that tennis fans everywhere can enjoy the excitement of this premier tennis event. Whether it’s through traditional television broadcasters like ESPN and the Nine Network or online streaming platforms like Iqiyi Sports and ESPN+, there are numerous options available for fans to catch all the action. The globalization of the broadcast coverage has not only increased the tournament’s popularity but has also brought the sport of tennis closer to fans in different parts of the world, further fueling the passion for the game.
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