January 21st, 2025Fans flocking to catch Aussie Open action
Tennis fans from across the globe have been flocking to Melbourne where the job-creating, record-smashing Australian Open is now in full swing.
This year the women’s final is set for Saturday, January 25.
The men’s final, a day later, will take place on Sunday, January 26.
The men’s and women’s singles champions will each earn $3.5 million, with runner-ups pocketing $1.9 million and semifinalists $1.1 million.
Last year’s record-breaking crowds at the Australian Open generated more than $533 million in economic benefits for the state, taking the total benefit to Victoria to more than $3.1 billion since 2014.
The event attracts hundreds of thousands of people to Melbourne. Last year more than 620,000 hotel nights were booked in Victorian hotels across the tournament – smashing the previous record by nearly 50,000 visitors. In 2024 the average daily visitor spend was also the highest on record, at $308 per person.
A calendar of off-court entertainment is running across the entire Australian Open for all ages to enjoy – with live music, great food and drinks, free activities for kids, plus two exciting new additions with The Village and TOPCOURT opening for the first time this year.
The Village gets fans closer to their favourite tennis stars with a new viewing platform between Kia Arena and John Cain Arena, offering unmatched access to players practicing.
TOPCOURT is a world-first immersive experience where tennis, culture, and video gaming collide in the heart of Birrarung Marr – linking the Australian Open and Melbourne’s CBD. It will feature live music and DJs, a Padel Court where fans can play, retail pop-ups and a host of the latest gaming setups.
The state government earlier announced that Australian Open ticket holders and staff can travel for free on Route 70a for the whole two weeks. 4,500 extra tram services will run to get people where they need to be.
This year’s Australian Open runs to 26 January at Melbourne Park. For tickets, go to ausopen.com.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos:
“We work hard to secure blockbuster, exclusive major events for our state – generating a record $39.7 billion in tourism spend, giving Victorians and visitors unparalleled access, and giving a boost to local businesses.”
