Australian Open under fire again as criticism floods in for ‘absurd’ decision involving Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic

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Both Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic made their way into the second round of the Australian Open.

Alcaraz and Djokovic could play in the Australian Open quarter-final if both players are to reach that stage.

While Alcaraz enjoyed a comfortable straight sets victory in his opener in Melbourne, Djokovic was forced to come from a set down against 19-year-old Nishesh Basavareddy.

Despite losing in four sets, the young American wildcard produced some eye-catching tennis and received a message from Djokovic who praised Basavareddy on social media.

Not only was it the first time that the 24-time major winner played Basavareddy, but it was also Djokovic’s first match with Andy Murray as his coach.

Australian Open criticized for day four scheduling

Although it was the first chance to see both Alcaraz and Djokovic in Melbourne, fans were not happy with the Australian Open after they were scheduled to play at the same time.

This reaction continued after the day four schedule at the Australian Open was announced, with Alcaraz and Djokovic once again in the same slot.

Tennis journalist Jose Morgado labelled the decision as absurd when posting about the schedule on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Alcaraz will be playing on the Margaret Court Arena once again, in his second round match against Yoshihito Nishioka.

While record 10-time champion Djokovic has been given top billing on Rod Laver Arena for his match against Jaime Faria, as he bids for a historic 25th Grand Slam title.

Morgado was not the social media user to criticize the Australian Open, with one person labelling the decision as ‘absolutely ridiculous’.

Another suggested that the decision was money motivated after writing, “I’m sure tennis aus has an algorithm that schedules based on likely revenue.”

A third fan added, “I agree. Why put Alcaraz on at the same time as Djokovic? Crazy planning and a good way for the Oz Open to not make the most of their opportunities. All tennis fans want to watch both. Get real guys.”

This was even affecting some of those heading to Melbourne Park to watch the action on Wednesday, “As someone with rod laver tickets tomorrow night, why tf would you not put Carlos on it? He’s literally the biggest star of all the players. Actually SO stupid.”

Who is playing on Rod Laver Arena on day four at the Australian Open?

Multiple fans not happy about the Australian Open’s decision, with Djokovic and Alexander Zverev getting placed on Rod Laver Arena over Alcaraz.

This was not an issue that Alcaraz faced in 2024, having played all five of his matches at the Australian Open on the the biggest court.

Alcaraz will play his match against Nishioka second on Margaret Court Arena on Wednesday January 15, with a not before time of 1pm in Melbourne.