New Opportunities Offered to Players at the Australian Open
Whether you are a die-hard tennis fan or watching for the first time, you can find things about the Australian Open that may surprise you. The Australian Open has undergone a significant transformation in the choice of playing surface. Originally played on grass, the tournament moved to hard courts in 1988. This change not only changed the pace and style of play, but also gave the first signals of the evolution that the tournament has undergone to keep up with the changing dynamics of modern tennis.
The Australian Open is usually played in extreme heat, with temperatures as high as above 40°C. The tournament is implementing an “Extreme Heat Policy” to protect players and officials, which includes closing the pop-up roofs of arenas and even suspending play when temperatures get too high.
In 2020, Melbourne Park set the record for the highest attendance at a Grand Slam event with over 812,000 spectators during the tournament. This staggering figure not only underlines the venue’s capacity to accommodate large crowds, but also reflects the global appeal and growing popularity of the Australian Open. Rod Laver Arena, the main court named after Australian tennis legend Rod Laver and with a capacity of more than 14,000 spectators, is one of the most iconic tennis stadiums in the world.
Interesting Facts about the Australian Open
The Australian Open is a tournament of extremes. Martina Hingis achieved the record for the youngest Grand Slam champion by winning the women’s singles title in 1997 at the age of just 16 years and three months. This record has still not been broken. At the other end of the spectrum is Ken Rosewall. In 1972, he became the oldest Grand Slam champion at 37 years and two months, and this record remains valid today.
The Australian Open is much more than a tennis tournament; it is a celebration of cultures. With players and spectators from all over the world, it is a melting pot of nationalities, languages and traditions. This cultural diversity manifests itself not only on the courts, but in the entire atmosphere. Held during the Australian summer, the tournament has a festive atmosphere, similar to a summer celebration. Melbourne Park is turning into an event center with live music, food stalls and various entertainment options, which makes the tournament a festival that appeals to a wide audience beyond a sporting event.
Known for its friendly atmosphere, impeccable organization, warm hospitality towards players and visitors, the Australian Open is called the ‘Happy Slam’. This nickname, worn by Roger Federer, reflects the warm and fun atmosphere of the tournament and showcases the Australian spirit in the midst of fierce competition. Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas said in an interview, “When I first visited Australia, I realized how warm and good the people there were. Visiting Australia has always held a special place in my heart.”
