As the first major event of the tennis calendar, the Australian Open always sets the scene for the year.
And in 2023, with the established champions finally moving aside for a new crop of players, this Open could be more important than ever as it ushers in a new era for the sport.
”This promises to be the year when we finally see the official changing of the guard in the men’s game,” Nine Network’s tennis commentator and Australian Open veteran Todd Woodbridge, 51, tells TV WEEK.
”Roger Federer’s retirement [in 2022] has definitely affected Rafael Nadal, as he was a huge motivator to Rafa’s success. And Novak [Djokovic] knows that this new generation are serious contenders now that they’re no longer in awe of the top guys.”
Poland’s IGA Swiatek, 21, has won three grand slam single titles to date: The French Open in 2020 and 2022 and the US open in 2022.
Nick Kyrogios will go into this year’s Open with plenty of support.
(IMAGE: Getty)As the Grand Slam begins, the trophy is up for grabs, and it could go to someone completely unexpected.
”In the women’s game, it’s wide open – with the exception of Iga Swiatek,” Todd says.
”She’ll be a heavy favourite for the title. I love the way she’s embraced being world number one; many before her seemed uncomfortable with the spotlight and pressure. It’s obvious how she’s watched and learnt from her mentor Nadal.
”But what [Tunisian] Ons Jabeur has done for women’s sport in North Africa, and the Middle East, by reaching a Wimbledon and US Open final is incredible.”
Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer are two of the world’s tennis greats.
(IMAGE: Getty)He says it’s all adding up to an Open where anything can happen, including a possible triumph by Australia’s own Nick Kyrgios.
”Without doubt, Nick is good enough to win the AO,” he says.
”What needs to happen, though, is he approaches it like he did Wimbledon [in 2022, where he made his first Grand Slam final].
”He needs to enjoy the process and not get distracted by outside pressures. It seems he’s put in the work over the past 12 months and has seen the rewards of that.”
