Australian Open 2018: best off-court action

WHILE one tennis star had something confiscated by airport security, others rocked out with Jimmy Barnes. Here’s the best of today’s off-court action.

Lleyton Hewitt and Neale Daniher joined Jimmy Barnes on stage to sing Working Class Man.

TENNIS star Eugenie Bouchard had a cricket bat taken by airport security while travelling to Melbourne because it was deemed to be a weapon.

The Canadian was given the bat by Big Bash team Hobart Hurricanes and joked she didn’t know what to do with it.

“They thought it could be used as a weapon on board so I had to leave it,’’ Bouchard told Confidential. “It’s a shame, but what can you do.”

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Eugenie Bouchard with the bat. Picture: Instagram

Eugenie Bouchard in Hobart. Picture: Getty Images

Meanwhile, Bouchard is ready for her Australian Open campaign.

“Australia always has a special place in my heart, it’s where I first broke through and did well.

“It’s amazing to come back to a place where you feel flooded by good memories. I walk by the locker I had and it’s very inspiring so it can bring only positive things.”

■ ROCK legend Jimmy Barnes has collaborated with the best in the business, including John Farnham and the late Michael Hutchence.

But Barnes took musical partnerships to the next level when he hit the stage at the Australian Open with tennis star Lleyton Hewitt and footy great Neale Daniher on backing vocals.

Barnes performed to support Daniher’s FIGHT MND cause.

Lleyton Hewitt and Neale Daniher joined Jimmy Barnes on stage to sing Working Class Man.

“MND effects a lot of people,” Barnes said. “Not just sports stars but ordinary people. I think it is something we should all get behind.”

Asked if the reformed rocker’s backstage rider has changed much, Barnes laughed: “No. The difference is I’m not drinking it all now. I leave it for our guests. All I need is honey and hot water.”

■ COLLINGWOOD star Taylor Adams and partner Ellie Thornycroft are avid tennis fans.

The couple will be courtside next week but have already checked out the Emirates hospitality suite, now in its fourth year.

Taylor Adams and Ellie Thornycroft at Emirates tennis.

“It’s awesome to be able to experience it with Emirates this year,’’ Adams said. “We’re keen for the quarter-finals next Wednesday, can’t wait to see the draw.”

Emirates will also host the likes of Olympia Valance and Dami Im over the next two weeks.

■ Hollywood star Will Ferrell was courtside on Monday. He is in town for four days to watch tennis.

Actor Will Ferrell and wife Viveca Paulin at Centre Court on Monday. Picture: Michael Klein