Watch 2014 Australian Open Live Online: Week 1 Action

Fans can watch the 2014 Australian Open live online as action starts down under and top contenders begin their climb toward the top.

The two-week tournament kicked off on Sunday for American viewers, and thanks to ESPN viewers can watch all the Australian Open action live online with streaming video.

Coverage started Sunday on ESPN3, with live streaming video of the first day’s action. Viewers had the choice of watching the Australian Open live online from either the Rod Laver Arena, Hisense Arena, or the Margaret Court Arena.

Matches began at 3 am ET online, but after a long break — when Australians were turned in for the overnight hours — coverage picks up at 7 pm and runs through the night.

The opening day of the Australian Open brought scorching heat that topped off a more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Top-seeded Rafael Nadal has already advanced to the second round, as have Roger Federer, Andy Murray, and defending champion Victoria Azarenka.

While the heat kicked in, Australian Open officials decided to let play resume. Tournament referee Wayne McKewen defended the decision not to suspend outdoor matches and close the roof on two arenas.

“While conditions were hot and uncomfortable, the relatively low level of humidity ensured that conditions never deteriorated to a point where it was necessary to invoke the ‘Extreme Heat Policy,'” McKewen said.

The draws for the top men’s and women’s contenders can be found here, and the full draw for the Australian Open can be found here.

Fans who want to watch the 2014 Australian Open live online can turn to ESPN3 or at the Australian Open’s official website.