The Australian Open will begin on a Sunday for the first time and tournament director Craig Tiley says fans should expected a “special night”.

First round singles matches will be played over three days and Tiley is promising a star-studded opening night session at Rod Laver Arena – both on and off the court.

“Over time we’re going to build it into a special opening night,” he told Tony Jones on 3AW Mornings.

Click PLAY to hear Tony Jones’ full chat with Craig Tiley

“We’ll have the best of the best play and have the best talent (there), we’ll be announcing pretty soon who else we’re bringing out to enjoy the night.

“The whole idea is to make it a special launch, this is the first time we’ve ever done this. Sunday (week) is going to be a special night.”