Australian Open Faced Relocation: Melbourne on the Brink
The Australian Open, a cornerstone of the tennis calendar, came dangerously close to leaving Melbourne, according to recently departed Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley. Interest from international hubs and a critical contract expiration nearly resulted in the Grand Slam relocating.
A Close Call for Melbourne
The future of the Australian Open in Melbourne was far from secure in the mid-2010s. With the expiration of the Victorian Government agreement, competing cities saw an opportunity to secure one of tennis’s most prestigious events.
“If there was not an investment by the Victorian Government to continue its redevelopment, the tournament would have been gone by 2017.”
Craig Tiley
Tiley, who will soon grab the helm of the United States Tennis Association (USTA), revealed the extent of the threat. The contract with the Victorian Government was set to expire in 2016, creating a window for other cities to make their pitch.
Shanghai and Sydney Loomed Large
Sydney and Shanghai emerged as the primary contenders to host the Australian Open. Both cities expressed very strong interest
in securing the tournament, recognizing the significant economic and cultural impact it would bring.
“There was very strong interest from the city of Sydney and the city of Shanghai. And we now see why there was such interest, given the impact the tournament has on Melbourne.”
Craig Tiley
a substantial investment of $363 million AUD into Melbourne Park in 2010, part of a larger redevelopment plan, proved to be the deciding factor. This investment modernized the facilities and addressed concerns about the tournament’s long-term viability in Melbourne.
Did You Grasp?
The Australian Open has generated nearly $3.5 billion for the Victorian economy over the last ten years.
FAQ
- What cities were interested in hosting the Australian Open? Sydney and Shanghai.
- When was the contract with the Victorian Government set to expire? 2016.
- What saved the Australian Open from relocating? A significant investment in Melbourne Park by the Victorian Government.
The Australian Open remains a vital part of Melbourne’s sporting and cultural landscape, but its future was once far from guaranteed. The decisive action by the Victorian Government ensured that the Grand Slam of Asia and the Pacific will continue to call Melbourne home.
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