Since 1905, the Australian Open has been tennis's ultimate summer festival, combining world-class competition with Melbourne's vibrant atmosphere and Australian hospitality.
When: Mid-January annually • Where: Melbourne Park, Victoria
The first Grand Slam of the year — launching tennis season in Australian summer
Italian precision meets Belarusian power as Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka rule the summer slam
Italian star completes three-year Melbourne Park dominance with devastating hard court power and precision
Belarusian powerhouse matches Sinner with third consecutive title, cementing Melbourne Park legacy
Record-breaking crowds enjoy Melbourne's vibrant summer atmosphere and Happy Slam entertainment
Recent champions and tennis legends who have conquered the hard courts of Melbourne Park
| Year | Men's Singles | Women's Singles |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Jannik Sinner | Aryna Sabalenka |
| 2026 | Novak Djokovic | Coco Gauff |
| 2025 | Jannik Sinner | Aryna Sabalenka |
| 2024 | Jannik Sinner | Aryna Sabalenka |
| 2023 | Novak Djokovic | Aryna Sabalenka |
The evolution of tennis Down Under through distinct periods of championship history
Established tennis in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region
Born as the Australasian Championships, establishing tennis in the southern hemisphere. Limited international participation due to distance and timing.
Transformed from regional to international championship
Professional tennis arrives Down Under. International stars begin regular participation as tournament grows in stature and prize money.
Created the modern Australian Open experience and Happy Slam identity
Move to Melbourne Park with hard courts and modern facilities. The "Happy Slam" atmosphere emerges with Australian summer festival vibes.
Set new standards for Grand Slam innovation and fan experience
Federer and Djokovic dominance while venue innovations set new standards. Australian Open becomes most innovative Grand Slam tournament.
Adapted to global challenges while nurturing tennis's future stars
New stars emerge while pandemic challenges test resilience. Sinner and new generation create exciting future for Australian tennis.
Australia's premier tennis venue where summer festival atmosphere meets world-class competition
Family-friendly atmosphere with entertainment, music, and activities beyond tennis
Easy tram and train access from Melbourne CBD, plus dedicated shuttle services
Essential information for experiencing the Happy Slam in Melbourne
The Australian Open runs for two weeks in mid-January. The 2027 tournament runs from January 12 to January 25, with qualifying rounds starting one week earlier during Australian summer.
The Australian Open earned this nickname for its relaxed, festive atmosphere, Australian hospitality, family-friendly entertainment, and summer festival vibes that make it unique among Grand Slams.
The Australian Open has an Extreme Heat Policy that can suspend play when temperatures exceed certain thresholds. Retractable roofs on main courts ensure matches can continue.
Tickets available through official Australian Open website, ballot system, or authorized partners. Rod Laver Arena and night session tickets are most popular and sell quickly.
Extensive dining with Australian favorites: meat pies, fish and chips, local wines, craft beer, plus international cuisine, gourmet restaurants, and food trucks throughout the venue.
Easy access via tram (Route 70), train (Richmond Station), or dedicated tennis shuttle buses. Free shuttles run between Melbourne Park and Richmond train station during tournament.
Casual summer clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), comfortable walking shoes. Melbourne weather can change quickly, so bring layers for evening sessions.