GRAND SLAM TENNIS TOURNAMENTS
The four Grand Slam tournaments, nicknamed the “big four”, are the most important events in the tennis calendar. They are big ticket events and offer the players the most ranking points, the most prize money and a worldwide stage.
Australian Open
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
The first Grand Slam of the year, and the only one that takes place in the southern hemisphere, hosted in Melbourne, Australia.
A vibrant colourful experience, often played in blistering summer heat, always makes for a tournament full of drama and often shows up surprise winners.
Said to be the players favourite major due to the location, timing and overall welcome, it’s always a fantastic start to the tennis season.
French Open
PARIS, FRANCE
Roland Garros (the tournament venue and named after the French aviator) is the culmination of the clay court season, played across continental Europe in early summer.
The only major played the red dirt, needs a completely different set of skills and often requires tremendous stamina, due to the long matches created by a slower surface.
The sophisticated Parisian crowd loves players with style and personality – it also helps to be French!
Wimbledon
LONDON, UK
SW19 in London is home to the Championships, the oldest tennis tournament in the world and generally regarded as the best.
Played on lighting fast grass courts, often favouring big servers, Wimbledon never fails to deliver excitement, theatre and tradition.
Whilst the players covet all four Slams, this tournament is the one they grow up dreaming about – lifting the trophy on centre court!
US Open
NEW YORK, US
The Slam season concludes on the hard courts of Flushing Meadows in New York.
Played in front of a noisy and partisan crowd. It has a unique atmosphere that takes some getting used to.
The finals are played out on Arthur Ashe Stadium in front of the largest tennis crown in the world.
The late summer heat and the chance of a calendar Grand Slam can bring the excitement levels to fever pitch and both the players and the crowds love it.
