Guide to Australian Open (AO) 2025 including where to watch in Singapore

The Australian Open isn’t just the first Grand Slam of the year—it’s also the perfect excuse for tennis stars to sweat it out in sweltering Melbourne heat while the rest of us watch comfortably at home. As one of the four Grand Slams, the Australian Open carries the prestige of history, drama, and the occasional unexpected meltdown. In this article, we’ll dive into the essence of a Grand Slam, the unique charm of the Australian Open, its storied past, and the must-watch headlines shaping the 2025 tournament.

What is a Grand Slam?

A Grand Slam in tennis refers to the sport’s four most prestigious tournaments: the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. These events are the pinnacle of professional tennis, attracting the best players worldwide to compete for glory, ranking points, and substantial prize money. Each Grand Slam takes place in a different country and time of year: the Australian Open (January) in Australia, the French Open (May-June) in France, Wimbledon (June-July) in England, and the US Open (August-September) in the United States. Winning all four titles in a calendar year—a rare feat known as the “Calendar Grand Slam”—is the ultimate achievement in tennis and a testament to a player’s dominance across surfaces and conditions.

What is the Australian Open?

The Australian Open is the first Grand Slam tennis tournament of the year, held annually in Melbourne, Australia. It kicks off the tennis season in January, welcoming top players from around the world to compete for glory on its iconic blue hard courts. Known as the “Happy Slam,” it’s famous for its festive atmosphere, combining intense competition with a vibrant summer vibe. As one of the four Grand Slam tournaments, it is a cornerstone of professional tennis and a must-watch event for fans.

Established in 1905, the Australian Open has evolved from a modest local championship into a global spectacle. Initially played on grass courts and held in various Australian cities, it found its permanent home at Melbourne Park in 1988, switching to hard courts to align with international standards. The tournament’s state-of-the-art facilities, including retractable roof stadiums, have made it a pioneer in accommodating players and fans, particularly during extreme weather conditions.

What sets the Australian Open apart is its accessibility and flair for innovation. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere with activities for fans of all ages, alongside world-class tennis action. The tournament’s night sessions, electric crowd energy, and quintessential Australian charm create an unforgettable experience. Add in the sweltering Melbourne summer heat and dramatic on-court battles, and it’s clear why the Australian Open is a favorite among players and fans alike.

Past Australian Open Men’s and Women’s Champions

The Australian Open has crowned some of the greatest players in tennis history, showcasing their dominance on its iconic courts.

Here’s a look at some notable past champions:

Men’s Champions

• Novak Djokovic: Djokovic holds the record for the most Australian Open men’s singles titles with 10 (as of 2023), showcasing his unparalleled dominance on Melbourne’s hard courts.
• Roger Federer: A six-time winner (2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2017, 2018), Federer’s artistry and resilience left an indelible mark on the tournament.
• Rafael Nadal: While more synonymous with clay, Nadal claimed his second Australian Open title in 2022, adding to his 2009 triumph.
• Andy Murray: Though he never won, Murray reached five finals, earning admiration for his grit and determination despite narrowly missing the title.
• Rod Laver: The legendary Australian captured the title in 1960 and 1962, contributing to his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

Women’s Champions

• Margaret Court: The Australian icon has the most Australian Open women’s singles titles with 11, a record unlikely to be surpassed.
• Serena Williams: A seven-time champion (2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2015, 2017), Serena’s powerful play has made her a standout in Melbourne.
• Ashleigh Barty: The beloved Australian won the 2022 title, marking the first homegrown champion since 1978, before retiring at the peak of her career.
• Steffi Graf: With four titles, Graf dominated in the late 1980s and early 1990s, part of her illustrious career.
• Monica Seles: Winning four consecutive titles from 1991 to 1994, Seles’ aggressive style was unmatched during her peak.

These champions have left a lasting legacy, cementing the Australian Open as a stage for tennis greatness. Their victories continue to inspire future generations of players vying for glory in Melbourne.

What Makes the Australian Open Different from the Other Slams?

The Australian Open stands out among the Grand Slams with its unique blend of summer vibes, cutting-edge facilities, and a fan-centric approach.

1. Timing and Atmosphere

As the first Grand Slam of the year, the Australian Open kicks off the tennis season in January, coinciding with the peak of summer in Melbourne. The sunny weather, festive crowds, and relaxed yet energetic ambiance create a stark contrast to the cooler climates of Wimbledon or the US Open.

1. Innovative Facilities

The Australian Open is a pioneer in tennis innovation, boasting state-of-the-art venues like Rod Laver Arena and Margaret Court Arena with retractable roofs to combat extreme heat or rain. The event also features blue Plexicushion courts, which provide a consistent and fair playing surface distinct from the grass at Wimbledon or the clay at Roland Garros.

1. Fan-Centric Approach

Often dubbed the “Happy Slam,” the Australian Open prioritizes fan experience with lively entertainment, diverse food options, and family-friendly activities. From night matches under the lights to live music performances and cultural showcases, it’s as much a festival as it is a tennis tournament.

These elements make the Australian Open not just a competition, but a celebration of sport, culture, and the Australian summer spirit

What else is there to do at the australian open besides tennis?

The Australian Open offers a variety of activities besides the tennis matches:

• AO Live Stage: Live music performances from local and international artists.
• Food & Drink: A wide range of food stalls offering gourmet options, pop-up bars, and fine dining experiences.
• AO Ballpark: Family-friendly entertainment with games, activities, and a kids’ zone.
• Tennis Australia’s Interactive Experiences: Fan zones, tennis-related games, and virtual experiences like meeting players or trying out tennis tech.
• Trophy Tours: Viewing the Australian Open trophies and memorabilia in interactive exhibits.
• Shopping: Official merchandise stands featuring Australian Open gear and tennis accessories.
• Courtside Lounge Areas: Relaxation zones with seating, food, and drink options, providing a more leisurely experience.
• Tennis Legends & Player Interactions: Opportunities for autographs, meet-and-greets, and watching practice sessions.

Headlines to watch for 2025 Australian Open?

Here are some key headlines to watch for the 2025 Australian Open:

• Rising Stars Shine: Young talents challenging established champions and making breakthroughs on the big stage.
• Novak Djokovic’s Record Hunt: Djokovic’s pursuit of another Grand Slam title, aiming for more historical records.
• Climate Impact: How the extreme weather conditions, like heatwaves, will affect the tournament schedule and player performance.
• New Faces in the Women’s Draw: Potential first-time Grand Slam winners emerging among the women’s players.
• Sustainability Efforts: Tennis Australia’s ongoing commitment to sustainability with zero-waste initiatives and eco-friendly practices.
• Mixed Doubles Excitement: Popular teams in the mixed doubles category bringing new energy to the competition.
• Technological Innovations: The impact of new tennis tech, including electronic line calls and AI-driven analysis.
• Venue Upgrades: The latest changes or improvements to the Melbourne Park facilities, including fan experiences and stadiums.
• Wildcard Surprises: Unexpected wild card entries or players defying the odds to make a deep run in the tournament.

Best merchandise at Australian Open

Here are some of the best merchandise items you can find at the Australian Open:

• Official Apparel: T-shirts, hoodies, and jackets featuring the iconic Australian Open logo and tournament branding. Limited edition designs often highlight the year’s event.
• Tennis Gear: High-quality tennis rackets, balls, and accessories from top brands like Wilson, Babolat, and Head, often customized with Australian Open logos.
• Caps & Hats: Stylish hats and caps, including the famous wide-brimmed sun hats, perfect for both keeping cool and showing off your AO spirit.
• Tote Bags & Backpacks: Practical and fashionable bags, many featuring tournament branding or popular player signatures.
• Towels: Soft, high-quality towels branded with the Australian Open logo or featuring player signatures for fans to collect.
• Drinkware: Stainless steel bottles, mugs, and cups that feature the Australian Open logo, helping you stay hydrated in style.
• Souvenir Pins & Keychains: Limited edition pins and keychains celebrating the tournament’s heritage or iconic players.
• Player Merchandise: Items specifically related to popular players like Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, or Ash Barty, such as shirts, caps, and autographed items.
• Australian Open Posters & Prints: Art prints and posters showcasing memorable moments from past tournaments, perfect for collectors.
• Sunglasses & Accessories: Stylish sunglasses, sun visors, and other accessories perfect for enjoying the Australian summer while watching the matches.

Where can you watch the Australian Open in Singapore?

In Singapore, you can watch the Australian Open through several platforms and locations:

• StarHub TV: StarHub offers live coverage of the Australian Open on its sports channels, including StarHub TV’s Fox Sports or ESPN.
• Singtel TV: Singtel subscribers can watch the Australian Open on the ESPN or Eurosport channels, available on its TV service.
• Online Streaming: Eurosport Player and Tennis TV: Both platforms provide live streaming of the tournament, but you may need a subscription to access the content.
• YouTube: Official highlights and some live action may also be available on the official Australian Open YouTube channel.
• Sports Bars and Restaurants: Some sports bars and restaurants in Singapore, like The Royal Oak or McGetrick’s, may screen major sports events, including the Australian Open.
• Local Broadcasts: Occasionally, local free-to-air channels may broadcast highlights or key matches, especially during peak hours.

Make sure to check the schedule and availability with your service provider or venue ahead of time!

What are your favourites in AO? Let me know!