For the 104th edition, the best tennis players around the world gather at Melbourne Park with the biggest games played on the show courts in Hisense Arena and Margaret Court Arena, and centre court at Rod Laver Arena. As the first Grand Slam of the year, 2016 Open Australia will start from January 18 end on January 31.
As partner of the Australia Open for providing event flooring with synthetic grass floor covering, Open Air Events gives you below 4 interesting facts, so this tennis tournament won’t have any more secret for you!
Australian Open History
Australian Open was previously known as Australian Championship and was founded in 1909. We had to wait until 1969 to be renamed into Australian Open.
Surface changes
Prior to 1988, the tournament had been played on grass. Then, since 1988 two types of hard court surfaces has been used. From 1988 to 2007, we used the rebound ace. Since 2008, tennis courts are now covered with plexicushion.
Extreme playing conditions
As the Australian Open is held in January, the hottest month in Melbourne, weather conditions are extreme and topping out at around 40°. 2007 tournament has been recorded as the hottest year. Since then, the Australian Open make use of Extreme Heat Policy which can suspend match when temperature is too high.
Winners
For three decades, this tennis tournament has taken place in Melbourne. The Australian Open has provided us with a large number of winning legends: Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Serena Williams, and Novak Djovokovic.
Whether you are hooked on tennis or simply in Melbourne in January, make sure to book your tickets on time, you won’t be disappointed!