Sport spotlight on Melbourne as Australian Open begins

Click play to join Donna Demaio at last night’s pre-Australian Open party.

The international sporting spotlight is now on Melbourne as the world’s best tennis players take to the court at the Australian Open.

Players are chasing a record prize purse of $44 million.

The champion man and woman will win $3.4 million each, while even first-round losers will claim about $38,5000.

Players also have access to unlimited food at Melbourne Park and have their hotel paid for.

Not a bad pay day if you can get a start!

Last night, several stars including Rafael Nadal and Victoria Azarenka enjoyed the city sights and hospitality at the official welcome held at Crown Riverside along the Yarra.

Click play above for Donna Demaio’s video report from the party.