Archive · 18 Jan 2026
Fans Frustrated by Long Queues at Australian Open
The Australian Open started on Sunday, but many fans were upset.
They had to wait in long lines to get into the park.
The organizers stopped selling the cheaper ground passes because too many people wanted them.
These passes let people watch matches on smaller courts and cost about $43.
Some fans were surprised and disappointed because they usually buy these passes but couldn't this time.
The tournament director said they paused sales to make sure people have a good time.
He also mentioned that evening passes are still available for $49.
Some fans didn't want to spend more money on the expensive main court tickets, which cost about $229.
The organizers didn't respond to requests for comments.
Fans faced long queues and frustration on the opening day of the Australian Open due to heightened security and intense demand for ground passes.
Tournament officials paused sales of cheaper ground passes within the first hour of play, leading to confusion and disappointment among fans.
Ground passes, costing A$65 ($43) for adults during day sessions, allow access to minor courts and were highly sought after.
Tournament director Craig Tiley confirmed that only more expensive tickets to the main showcourts were available, with evening ground passes still on sale for A$49.
Local and international fans expressed disappointment, with some surprised to find ground passes unavailable and others unwilling to spend more on expensive main court tickets.
- Who
- Fans and tournament organizers
- What
- Frustration over long queues and ticket sales halt
- When
- On the opening day of the Australian Open, Sunday
- Where
- Melbourne Park
- Why
- Due to heightened security and intense demand for ground passes
- Event
- Australian Open
- Date
- Sunday
- Location
- Melbourne Park
- Ground Pass Cost
- A$65 ($43) for adults during day sessions
- Evening Ground Pass Cost
- A$49
- Main Showcourt Ticket Cost
- A$229 per person
- Tournament Director
- Craig Tiley
