Melbourne at risk of losing Australian Open event to another state or even overseas

The first Grand Slam of the year has traditionally been played in Melbourne, which plays host to the Australian open. However, the annual event could find itself in a new home over the next few years.

According to Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley, there were conversations regarding moving the event out of state or even overseas during the peak of the pandemic.

Sydney, Australia and even Shanghai were listed as possible options, until Melbourne was able to secure the hosting rights through 2046. That being said, Tiley stated that the Australian open hoped to keep up with the likes of Wimbledon, Roland Garros and the US Open.

Additionally, Tiley would like to see the event extended to three weeks, with the purchase of a new stadium and new tennis courts a priority. Therefore, Tennis Australia's main goal over the next decade would be to boost ticket sales, thereby increasing cash flow as the tournament hopes to achieve the proposed monetary goals.