Australian Open 2026: How Craig Tiley turned Melbourne event into ‘the Glastonbury of tennis’

However, the Australian Open wouldn’t be the same without its core product – its players.

Looking back a few decades ago, many European and American celebrities would not go to Melbourne because it was too far away and there was a general feeling that Melbourne lacked prestige.

That’s changed a lot – not least because of Tiley’s travel stipends for players.

“A lot of players are happy to escape the European winter, see other players again and catch up in the new year,” Federer said.

“People are very excited and excited about the Australian Open. The players can feel it. The atmosphere is very happy.”

Special emphasis is placed on high-quality player facilities.

The high-tech racquet lab offers personalized racquet strings and grips, while the wellness suite offers physiotherapy, massage treatments and a plunge pool.

Professional medical services are available – ophthalmologists, dermatologists, podiatrists and orthopedists, as well as nutritionists and hydration specialists – while chefs bring you the comforts of home from all corners of the globe.

The hotel also has a beauty salon with a hairdresser, pedicurist and manicurist, as well as laundry services and dry cleaners.

There’s even an on-site bank.

“We have a full travel package. We offer just about every service you can think of to service an athlete,” Tilley said in a recent interview with Forbes magazine.