MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA, January 24th, 2025
Attending the “O” at the AO, where the most incredible service isn’t just on the court, is to step into a world where history is made, all while indulging in the finest cuisine. The ‘O’ space is the place to be, attracting a Who’s Who of Tennis and the Grand Slams: legends like the legendary Margaret Court, power couple Bill and Lesley Bowrey, and other movers and shakers from behind the scenes, like Tennis Australia’s Chair, Jane Hrdlicka. Jane Hrdlicka was dressed head-to-toe in silver, and looked absolutely fabulous, with her great outfit mirroring her energy—bold, determined, and forward-thinking. She’s committed to making tennis accessible to everyone in Australia and around the world, and is the kind of person who will stop at nothing to make that happen.
Debbie Jevans, the first chairwoman of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club Board, was there and keen to see how she could bring the AO’s success to Wimbledon. In a world where inclusivity is becoming increasingly important, it’s no surprise that Wimbledon is also looking to expand and welcome more people into the event. It’s part of a wider push to ensure that tennis is for everyone, and it’s exactly where the sport is headed—embracing progress and welcoming diversity.
Irresistible was lucky enough to attend with one of our daughters, who’s 19 and working in the Media Services team for her second year. As we mingled, a few world class ex-tennis players and dignitaries joked that their grandsons might be keen to meet her. This isn’t just about tennis or business. It’s a community. It’s a family. And who needs dating apps when you’ve got the “tennis family” looking after you?
Outside the main arenas today it was also Pride Day proving that at the AO, love really is all around.
Then we had Craig Tiley, the Australian Open Tournament Director. Craig Tiley is involved in the Melbourne arts festival RISING, and invited a few guests from that world to the AO. It was fascinating to hear tennis explained through the lens of a choreographer. In their eyes, the ball kids don’t just rush around; they move with purpose, grace, and synchronicity, much like dancers performing a well-rehearsed routine. The players too, with their precise footwork and explosive movements, resemble dancers performing a carefully orchestrated routine. Tennis isn’t just a sport; it’s a dance—a live performance unfolding on the court.
Sport and art have far more in common than we often realise. Both require strength, timing, and control, and both tell a story through movement. It’s a reminder that the line between sport and art isn’t as clear-cut as we sometimes think.
In the end, the “O” at the AO is more than just a VIP experience; it’s where incredible athletes, influential leaders, and passionate visionaries come together to not only celebrate the sport but also shape its future. It’s also of course, a reminder that in the “tennis family”, it’s not just about the game; it’s about connection, camaraderie, and maybe even a little bit of love.
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