AO Opening Week presented by the Herald Sun will pack more on-court action than ever
Melbourne tennis fans can catch the biggest names in the sport a week ahead of the Australian Open with a series of charity matches announced.
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Australian Open tennis action will blast into life almost a full week early in Melbourne with fans for the first time able to snap up bargain tickets to see the world’s best tennis stars go head-to-head in charity matches.
Crowds will get close to the likes of defending champion Novak Djokovic, Aussie No. 1 Alex de Minaur and rising superstar Carlos Alcaraz for as little as $10 for adults in significant a Grand Slam change.
In a move to extend the event from two weeks to three, AO Opening Week presented by the Herald Sun will pack more on-court action than ever into Melbourne Park from January 8-13.
It will see four night time charity matches on Rod Laver Arena serve as fundraisers.
Daily practice sessions for the game’s best players on arena courts will be accessible to the public for the first time.
Bars and restaurants will open in the precinct for qualifying matches as up-and-coming players try to battle their way into the main draw of the tournament.
And an AO Opening Week Fan Zone will be unveiled for the week leading up to the tournament proper.
Australian Open director Craig Tiley said: “The new opening week gives fans unprecedented access and a five-star Grand Slam preview experience.
“Fans can sit in the front row of Rod Laver Arena and watch the world’s best players prepare for the AO, wander the site and see the talent of tomorrow fighting through qualifying matches on the outdoor courts.”
It’s hoped former Australian Open winners Naomi Osaka and Caroline Wozniacki – both returning to the sport after becoming mums – will play off in the first charity match on January 9.
Alcaraz will take on Newcombe Medallist de Minaur on January 10 and Djokovic will take to the court the following night, likely against Greek favourite Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Tickets to the nightly charity matches, beginning at 6.30pm, will start from $20.
“We have a proud history of galvanising the local tennis community and the world’s top players to support and raise much needed funds to help those who are most in need,” Tiley said.
“This year is all about inspiring brighter futures and we are delighted to team up with the Herald Sun to put on a series of charity matches during AO Opening Week.
“The proceeds from the matches will go a long way to support range of children’s charities through the Australian Tennis Foundation.”
Despite ruling himself out of the Open through injury, it is hoped Aussie Nick Kyrgios will play a part in the lead-up week.
Kids Tennis Day will be held on January 13, before the Open runs from January 14-28.
Rather than rushing off court, players taking part in “AO Open Practice” in front of fans will stage press conferences on court for the public to watch.
Tickets to the charity matches will go on sale in the first week of January.
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