The unique part of every Major event in tennis is the excitement that builds in the lead-up. It creates a special atmosphere across the tennis world, one where tournaments schedule engaging activities, events, and exhibitions before the main draw begins to connect both fans and players.
It is no different at the Australian Open. This year, almost a full week of festivities has been scheduled ahead of the main draw, with both former legends and future stars set to take part. Here is a complete rundown of everything organised for Australian Open Fan Week.
January 13
Two singles matches between top players across both tours will take place on the opening day. The day will begin with Jasmine Paolini facing Elena Rybakina, followed by Alexander Zverev taking on newly crowned top-five player Lorenzo Musetti.
January 14
Day two opens with a clash between two fan favourites, as Elina Svitolina takes on Amanda Anisimova.
This will be followed by the newly revamped and highly anticipated “1 Point Slam”, featuring stars such as Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Coco Gauff, and Iga Swiatek. They will compete against both professionals and fans in a 32-player draw of one-point matches, with a massive AUD 1 million prize on the line.
January 15
The third day will mark the return of ten-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic to Rod Laver Arena, where he will face Frances Tiafoe in an exhibition match that promises fireworks. The star power will not end there, as Australian No.1 Alex de Minaur will then take on world No.1 Carlos Alcaraz to close out the day.
The official Australian Open draw will also take place on January 15 and will be available to watch live across the tournament’s social platforms and website.
January 16
Continuing the tradition of featuring the biggest names on Rod Laver Arena, day four will begin with Felix Auger-Aliassime taking on two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner.
This will be followed by an official Red Bull event, the “Red Bull Bassline”, where six players will compete in a unique round-robin format. While participants have not yet been announced, Red Bull currently sponsors several tennis players, including Matteo Berrettini, Elena Rybakina and Marketa Vondrousova, among others.
January 17
The final day before the main draw begins will start with a series of mixed doubles exhibition matches, with teams yet to be revealed by the tournament.
However, the biggest attraction of the entire week will come at the end of the day. Roger Federer will return to Rod Laver Arena for a historic, first-ever opening ceremony appearance. He will be joined by Andre Agassi, Patrick Rafter and Lleyton Hewitt for a special “Battle of World No.1s” event on the eve of the main draw.
With that, the first Major of the year will officially be underway, as another gruelling yet thrilling tennis season begins on the sport’s biggest stage.
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
