And another 200 million Chinese fans can watch the action from Melbourne on television in a huge boost to the city profile.
The organizers have reported a 30 percent increase in ticket sales from tour operators in China compared to last year, after Li’s trip to the final of the open sent Chinese fans into a frenzy.
New TV rights deal in the country means 65 million more people could listen to the tournament of the year.
This year’s open will see almost everyone in the world’s top players to fly to Melbourne, with 98 of 100 of the men and women field to confirm their presence.
In the men’s event, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Aussie star Lleyton Hewitt and Andy Murray United Kingdom will be a favorite among and between the woman, Li Na, Sam Stosur, Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters and Maria Sharapova will be a strong contender.
Steve Ayles, commercial Director of Tennis Australia, said: