'Raising the bar even higher': AO 2026 welcomes new and improved entertainment for fans

(Getty/Daniel Pockett)

Once again, the Australian Open is implementing bold new ideas to ensure Melbourne Park maintains its 'Happy Slam' reputation.

Australian Open 2026's three-week tennis and entertainment festival includes:

• OPENING WEEK will see the entire precinct open from day one for the first time, with affordable family tickets and free entry for kids on day one. Fans can enjoy AO Ballpark presented by Emirates, TOPCOURT, nightly live music on Grand Slam Oval, qualifying, open practice, four nights of charity events and Kids Tennis Day presented by Emirates. 5000 Hot Shots Tennis racquets will be given away.

  
  

• MILLION-DOLLAR 1-POINT SLAM, where 22 pros will compete against 10 amateurs from across the country for their chance to take home $1 million. Qualifying will take place across Australia and at the AO during Opening Week, with the final played on Rod Laver Arena.

  
  

• SHAKE SHACK's first-ever Australian pop-up is coming to the AO. Shake Shack will be serving its signature ShackBurger^® and an exclusive AO Shake, only available at TOPCOURT during January.

  
  

• AO LIVE will transform the AO into Melbourne's ultimate summer festival, with 21 days of music across the precinct – from nightly performances on Grand Slam Oval, including Opening Week, to five huge nights of international headliners at AO LIVE Presents in John Cain Arena.

  
  

• THE HIGHLINE will give fans elevated views, extra shade, and a seamless connection to the reimagined Courtside Bar for the ultimate tennis viewing experience.

  
  

•  DOUBLE STOREY GRAND SLAM OVAL will offer more seating, plenty of shade, and prime views of the big screens, creating the perfect spot to soak up the AO’s electric festival atmosphere.

  
  

• NEW DOUBLES FINAL SCHEDULE will see both men's and women's doubles finals played during the afternoon on the final Saturday on Rod Laver Arena.

  
  

• PICKLEBALL SLAM will be back bigger and better after its successful debut at AO 2025.

By entering the code TFS2025, you will receive 15% off the RRP on all non-sale items when you shop online at www.racquetworld.com.au

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During the official Australian Open 2026 media launch, Tournament Director Craig Tiley expressed his enthusiasm and excitement ahead of the first Grand Slam of the new year.

"Australian Open 2025 set a new benchmark, and in 2026, we're raising the bar even higher," he said.

"From the fierce rivalries and rising stars on court to unforgettable moments across the precinct, the AO continues to push the envelope as a global force in sport and entertainment. It's a platform like no other for our fans, our players and global brands.

"The growth of the AO over recent years has been extraordinary – we welcomed 1.2 million fans in 2025. That momentum brings a new challenge: how do we give even more people a spectacular AO experience? The answer is Opening Week, which we’ve taken to the next level in scale and experience for AO 2026."

Tiley also confirmed that world No.1 Carlos Alcaraz will headline the million-dollar one-point Slam, describing the event as a "thrilling new initiative".

Australian Open qualifying begins Monday, January 12, with the main draw scheduled to commence Sunday, January 18.

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