Australian Open 2024 draw

 Two Australian players will fulfill a lifelong dream on the first day of the Australian Open 2024, with Dan Sweeney and Adam Walton making their Grand Slam main draw debuts.

 "To go from something in my imagination to reality is absolutely surreal," admitted world No. 257 Sweeney after securing his place in the draw by qualifying. 

The 22-year-old Australian faces world number 22 Francesco Serandolo in opening round action at the John Keane Arena. 

Walton, meanwhile, starts the game at Kia Arena. The 24-year-old wildcard, who is ranked world No. 167 after a career-best 2023 season, meets world No. 41 Matteo Arnoldi. 

Also in attendance at the Kia Arena will be reigning Australian Open doubles champion Jason Kubler, who will begin his singles campaign this evening against world number 89 Daniel Elahi Galan. 

Kubler will have a significant experience advantage against the 27-year-old Colombian, who is looking to win his first main draw at the Australian Open. 

Meanwhile, Chris O'Connell returned to the familiar Court 3, one of the most memorable moments of his Australian Open. 

This is where he played his third-round match at the Australian Open 2022, when he was at wildcard number 175. 

"It was great walking with the crowd on Court 3," recalled O'Connell, who has since climbed to world No. 71. 

It's a spine-tingling feeling he hopes to experience again this afternoon when he takes on former world number 17 Christian Garin. 

One thing is guaranteed, it will be a historic day at Melbourne Park. 

For the first time in Australian Open history, the tournament is starting on Sunday and will continue for 15 days.