Overview
- Organisers paused sales of the cheaper ground passes within the first hour of play due to intense demand, leaving only main showcourt tickets available by mid-morning.
- Tournament director Craig Tiley confirmed the halt and urged fans to consider evening options, noting After-5 passes remained on sale.
- Large crowds and tightened security following the Bondi Beach shooting contributed to lengthy, confusing queues outside Melbourne Park.
- Some attendees reported waits of more than an hour, expressed frustration over unclear ticket information, and sought refunds after missing early play.
- Tennis Australia said entry pressure eased in the afternoon as customer service staff redirected people to alternate gates, and play continued across the grounds.