This year’s Australian Open will introduce a new tradition, with the tournament set to kick off with its first-ever opening ceremony.
Six-time champion Roger Federer will headline the event in a special doubles match alongside fellow legends Andre Agassi, Patrick Rafter, and Lleyton Hewitt.
With a mix of festivities, music, and on-court action planned, here is a complete guide to the Australian Open Opening Ceremony.
When Is the Australian Open Opening Ceremony Scheduled?
The inaugural Australian Open Opening Ceremony will take place on Saturday, January 17, one day before main-draw action begins.
Venue for the Opening Ceremony
The ceremony will be held at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park, the Australian Open’s showpiece court.
Players on Show
Roger Federer will make a special return to Rod Laver Arena ahead of the 2026 Australian Open, bidding a formal farewell to the tournament where he won six titles. The Swiss great will compete alongside ATP legends Andre Agassi, Lleyton Hewitt, and Pat Rafter in the “Battle of the World No. 1s” doubles match that headlines the opening ceremony.
Federer, who famously coined the Australian Open’s “Happy Slam” nickname, will appear on Rod Laver Arena for the first time since 2020, having officially retired from professional tennis at the 2022 Laver Cup.
Tickets
Tickets for the opening ceremony are available via Ticketmaster. Prices start at AUD 299, while premium VIP packages range from approximately AUD 2,500 to AUD 20,000.
Entertainment
The event will also feature live music from Crowded House, the iconic Australian rock band.
Timings
The Australian Open Opening Ceremony is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM local time.
Where to Watch the Opening Ceremony
Fans can watch the opening ceremony live on:
- TennisTV in the United States
- Sky Sports in the United Kingdom
- TSN in Canada
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