The world of tennis, celebrities, and high-profile social gatherings is in full swing, and what's truly fascinating is how many renowned individuals attend these events—not necessarily to watch the matches, but often to partake in exclusive parties and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. But here's where it gets controversial: do these stars really care about the sport, or are they simply there for the experience, the networking, and the stylish scenes? Many fail to watch the tennis altogether, raising questions about the genuine entertainment value of these high-profile appearances.
As the Australian Open transitioned from its playful rebrand of 'Opening Week'—which attracted three times the usual crowds during the previous 'Qualifying Week'—the main tournament kicked off on Sunday. Interestingly, despite the star-studded guest lists, few of these well-known faces seem to dedicate time to actually following the intense tennis on the courts.
One noteworthy debut was made by Chris Harrop, the new chair of Tennis Australia, who hosted a private dinner on the rooftop of the 'O' venue—a hidden gem accessible only through a discreet elevator and a dedicated lanyard. This exclusive gathering featured some of Australia's most prominent figures, who enjoyed a lavish multi-course meal with delicacies like jasmine-poached rock lobster and Wagyu beef from Mayura Station. After dining, guests were led through a narrow corridor that opened up directly into prime seating at Rod Laver Arena.
Harrop was gracious enough to invite his predecessor, Jayne Hrdlicka—who haven't seen her at the Australian Open in a decade—perhaps simply to enjoy the match for pleasure. She, a former leader at a2 Milk and Virgin, has since reinvented herself as the CEO of Endeavour Group, owner of popular retail brands like Dan Murphy’s and BWS. When asked whether he had the stamina to sit through long, grueling tennis matches—an essential part of attending this time of year—Harrop joked that perhaps late-night coffees and Melbourne's notoriously cold weather might help him survive.
Hrdlicka, known to snack on almonds during marathon five-set matches, might have an advantage in endurance over Harrop, who confessed to a preference for cashews—though he admitted they probably wouldn't sustain him through a match. Meanwhile, legendary tennis star Roger Federer, who also participated in Saturday night’s opening ceremony, made an appearance at the game, sitting comfortably beside the legendary Rod Laver. The two were then photographed with Aryna Sabalenka, the world No.1, celebrating her first-round victory.
Among other tennis icons present were Judy Dalton and Wendy Turnbull, who sipped on Pepsi with ice—in total, they have accumulated a combined total of 38 Grand Slam titles across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Also present were retired Olympic swimmer Ariarne Titmus, who joked she might leave early if the match stretched too late, and cyclist Cadel Evans, famous for winning the Tour de France and sporting a casual T-shirt.
Waleed Aly, a well-known columnist and ABC radio host, arrived with his wife, Susan Carland, and opted for the trendy botanical-infused mocktails served at the event. Fashion critic and blogging personality Fashion Critical showed her support for veteran showbiz survivor Kerri-Anne Kennerley by greeting her personally, removing her hat and sunglasses—an uncommon gesture of admiration.
The event's elite VIP seating was populated by Melbourne’s fashionable crowd, including nightclub impresario Nick Russian, celebrity hairdresser Joey Scandizzo, designer Nadia Bartel, and shoe designer Lana Wilkinson. Meanwhile, catering entrepreneurs Bruce and Chyka Keebaugh, who have recently sold part of their catering company to global giant Compass Group, enjoyed a rare night off. We took the opportunity to ask for their honest critique on the event’s catering—fortunately, no notes were given!
In another privileged section, influential influencer Bec Judd and her former footballer husband, Chris Judd, received prime seats courtesy of sponsor Piper-Heidsieck champagne. The Judds were led into a secret underground area beneath Rod Laver Arena, usually reserved for players and officials, where they relaxed in a specially created sushi omakase room, curated by chef Shimpei Raikuni.
They also scored access to the coveted 'on-court' seats—an exclusive area for only 16 spectators—placed close enough to see players like Carlos Alcaraz in action, even to the point of catching his sweaty towel being tossed into an adjacent bin.
Recent sightings suggest the Judds have been enjoying Melbourne life, possibly dining at the InterContinental Hotel in Sorrento, where Brittany Groth, an ex-tennis player and record-holder for fastest serve, works in marketing. Her partner, Sam Groth, who briefly pursued a political career as a deputy Liberal leader before quitting after just one term, demonstrates how quick some of these careers are to come and go—much like a five-set tennis match.
And let’s not forget the lively crowd of influencers and AFL stars. At this Melbourne major, it’s nearly impossible to be more than ten meters from an Instagram influencer or a Collingwood footballer. For instance, Collingwood’s Isaac Quaynor and Jack Crisp posed for photos with Crisp’s wife, Mikayla, who was happily approached by a stranger well-versed in her family history from Wodonga.
The prestigious on-court seats drew the Daicos brothers, Nick and Josh—both AFL stars—and Josh’s fiancée, Annalise Dalins. At the same time, at the Grand Slam Oval’s tequila bar, sponsored by Casa Altos, AFL players Conor Nash and Jack Gunston (of Hawthorn) mingled with NRL star Cameron Munster over tequila cocktails, all while enjoying the matches.
Adding to the celebrity roster, Michelle Payne—the first woman jockey to win the Melbourne Cup—made an appearance with her boyfriend, Gabriel Ribeiro, further proof that Melbourne's big events are family reunions for the city’s elite, constantly attending each other's festivities.
All these scenes illustrate that at Melbourne’s major sporting events, the focus isn’t solely on the sport. Often, the real action happens off the court—through exclusive parties, high-profile dinners, and the unspoken art of networking among Australia’s brightest and most ambitious. But does this overshadow the true spirit of the game? Or does it add to the buzz and glamour that make Melbourne the sporting capital of Australia?
What’s your take: are these star appearances enhancing your experience or diluting the essence of the sport? Drop your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a lively debate!
