Andy Murray’s mother has praised Australian tennis for its development of girls participation.

Judy Murray is a champion of girls tennis, having pioneered the Miss-Hits program encouraging girls aged 5-8 to get into the sport.

Ms Murray told Tony Jones the key decision from Tennis Australia was appointing Nicole Pratt at the head of women’s tennis.

‘Having a women in charge of the women’s side of the game makes a big difference,’ she said on Monday.

‘Female coaches better understand what girls are thinking and what they need.’

Ms Murray said there is ‘absolutely no chance’ she will call her son Sir Andy, despite his recent knighthood. 

Click play to hear from Judy Murray

More than 40,000 fans are expected at Melbourne Park for the opening day’s play of the 2017 Australian Open.

However, changes to the precinct’s layout mean some major entry points are different from recent years.

The main entrance now faces the city, with fans entering via Birrarung Marr and the site of the AO Festival.

For those still wanting to enter Melbourne Park off Olympic boulevard, there is an entry point outside Hisense Arena, across from AAMI Park.

Opening-day seats will be at a premium at Hisense, where Aussies Ash Barty and Nick Kyrgios will feature.

Sam Groth, James Duckworth, and Destanee Aiava are also on court today.

Meanwhile, those wanting a taste of the Open for free can visit the AO Festival on the banks of the Yarra, which will have numerous food and entertainment options over the next fortnight.