"Overseas broadcast rights are incredibly lucrative, of course. Tennis Australia has invested millions of dollars in the expansion and improvement of Melbourne Park and the Australian Open, paying the players far more prize money than in the past. That money has to be recouped, so having the men's final at night, also offering fans hours to be in the grounds and spend money, makes sense."
"In the US, though, 7.30pm Melbourne time equates to 3.30am in New York. Many people mentioned the heat. Well, the Australian Open has a heat rule so if it's too hot, they close the roof and the players and crowd are in air-conditioning. The fans in the grounds watching on big screens need more shade, yes, but the tournament has pledged to improve that in future years."
In 2001 the men's final began at 2pm when Andre Agassi beat Arnaud Clement in one hour, 46 minutes. Since 2005 the Australian Open men's final has been scheduled at night. Overseas broadcast rights and lucrative Asian and European TV markets drive evening starts and help recoup Tennis Australia's investments in Melbourne Park and higher prize money. Night scheduling increases on-site spending by fans. The late start disadvantages U.S. viewers due to time differences and raises concerns about local viewing and children. The tournament uses a heat rule and roof to provide air-conditioning, and plans to add more shade for grounds spectators.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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