Australian Open 2021 - ‘Are they scared?’ – Crowds down on opening day for Serena Williams match

ByTom Adams

Updated 08/02/2021 at 06:32 GMT

The Australian Open normally boasts a raucous atmosphere but things were different on day one in Melbourne Park as coronavirus restrictions had an impact. Even so, crowd numbers seemed to be lower than expected, especially with the great Serena Williams in action on Rod Laver Arena. Watch the Austalian Open on Eurosport, eurosport.co.uk and the Eurosport app.

The first day of the 2021 Australian Open brought fans back to a major sporting event, but not quite in the numbers expected, especially as Serena Williams opened her campaign at Melbourne Park.

Capacity has been capped at 30,000 due to coronavirus control measures and fans are having to segregate in different areas of Melbourne Park and wear masks.

However, even so there were a distinct lack of crowds for the opening match on Rod Laver Arena as Naomi Osaka beat Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova 6-1 6-2.

WTA Madrid

Osaka 'taking a lot of inspiration' from clay experts as she seeks first title on surface

13 hours ago

And a crowd of only hundreds were present as Serena, going in search of her 24th Grand Slam, enjoyed a 6-1 6-1 win over Germany's Laura Siegemund.

Spectator Robert Norvill, 64, told The Age newspaper: "I’ve been wanting to come for a long time. I’m afraid of coronavirus because I’m 64, but I’m not going to let it ruin my life.

"I’m finding it a funny thing that the locals haven’t come, are they scared about what’s going on?"

Highlights: Serena storms past Siegemund

However, even if crowds were lighter than expected, for players who had to contend with quarantine regulations upon entering the country, it was presumably a relief to perform on a major stage again.

"This is a good start, definitely vintage Serena," Serena said. "It's definitely good, I think I'm good at pacing myself at a Grand Slam. This is amazing.

"Last year was very crazy for the world and to be able to do what I love and come out and compete and play a Grand Slam after the last 12 months makes me appreciate the moment even more."

The Australian Open is live on Eurosport. Watch every match live and ad-free on the Eurosport app and eurosport.co.uk. You can download the Eurosport app for iOS and Android now.

Billie Jean King Cup

Osaka aiming for Paris Olympics after helping Japan reach Billie Jean King finals

13/04/2024 at 20:01

Billie Jean King Cup

Billie Jean King Cup qualifiers: Which top stars are playing?

11/04/2024 at 11:13

WTA Charleston

Collins 'so grateful' for Williams sisters' support after winning Charleston title

08/04/2024 at 10:11