Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Nick Kyrgios will all feature in an exhibition event ahead of the Australian Open to raise money for the bushfire relief. Organisers will also enforce a new air quality policy as tennis stars battle smoke-related issues.
Tennis Australia chief Craig Tiley announced the news on Wednesday with the Rally for Relief being held at Rod Laver Arena on the night of January 15. Proceeds will be donated to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal. He also confirmed the Australian Open will go ahead despite poor air quality.
“This is a new experience for not only us but across the world in this sport,” Tiley said.
“But we lead the world with the extreme heat policy and we expect to do the same around air quality. We do have three stadiums with roofs so play will always continue.
“But what will be new is that we will have some real-time (air quality) monitoring on-site … and we’ll use that analysis to make some decisions around the safety and well-being of players and fans.
“I think the players understand that this is not something that we can do anything about and they’ve been gracious and very cooperative. They want to play.”
Other stars tipped to take part are Naomi Osaka, Serena Williams, Caroline Wozniaki and Stefanos Tsitsipas with more on their way.
“For a period of about two-and-a-half hours we’re going to be showcasing the game, but also coming together as a community to play our part in the relief effort,” Tiley continued.
“I’m really proud of the playing group because the number of calls and emails I’ve got with everyone stepping forward and either giving money or making themselves available.
“The format is going to be pretty cool … it’s going to be a combination of fun and seriousness.
“We’ll see some doubles, we’ll see some singles, some target hitting and opportunities to raise more money on the night. We’ll see the players having a lot of fun.”
Tickets can be purchased from Ticketmaster.
