World tennis boss delves into speculation China or Saudi Arabia could take over Australian Open

If the ATP has anything to say about it, the Australian Open will stay in Melbourne forever, as the season-opening Grand Slam once again boasts record crowds and excellent television ratings.

Officially called the Asia Pacific Grand Slam, the Open could possibly be threatened by countries like China or Saudi Arabia.

Perhaps that's why the Victorian government and Tennis Australia moved to extend hosting rights for the billion-dollar show until 2046 during the global pandemic.

And if ATP president Andrea Gaudenzi has his way, the Australian Open will “absolutely” stay at Melbourne Park.

'The park here is fantastic. “The infrastructure is amazing,” Gaudenzi said.

'You've got the city of Melbourne just a few miles away and the people are just great.

ATP president Andrea Gaudenzi wants the Australian Open to “absolutely” stay at Melbourne Park

Officially called the Asia Pacific Grand Slam, the Open could eventually be threatened by countries like China or Saudi Arabia (pictured, Australian star Nick Kyrgios).

Alex de Minaur carried his nation's hopes into the second week at Melbourne Park before being eliminated in the quarter-finals.

'This is a country of tennis. There is a great story here and it is incredible.

'Together with Paris, London and New York, we have four major infrastructures and cities for the Grand Slams.

“I don't see any reason why we should change that.”

The 2025 Open attracted 941,635 fans during the first 12 days of the so-called 'Happy Slam'.

With three days left, the tournament is on track to surpass last year's all-time record of 1,020,763 spectators who flooded Melbourne Park and its enormous venue that stretches almost to Federation Square.

Officials reported 10 daily records until Thursday's women's semifinal night.

Australian Open boss Craig Tiley previously stated that Melbourne Park needs another major stadium to complement Rod Laver Arena and John Cain Arena, the Australian Open's two main courts, plus more outdoor courts.

To do so, he suggested Melbourne Park expand over the railway lines into what little green space remains in the city's tightly packed sporting precinct, adjacent to the rectangular AAMI Park stadium.

Melbourne Park is currently leased by Tennis Australia (not owned) and the facility is controlled by the government.

Previously, the Australian Open was played on grass courts at Kooyong before the tournament. It moved to the hard courts at Melbourne Park in 1988.