Tennis Australia is expanding its entertainment offering with pre-match performances every night at Rod Laver Arena and headline shows featuring The Kid LAROI, Spacey Jane, and G Flip.

The Australian Open 2026 isn't just a tennis tournament anymore—it's becoming one of Melbourne's biggest live music events.

Tennis Australia has announced a major expansion of its entertainment program, delivering 21 days of music across Melbourne Park during this year's tournament.

A Grand Slam First

In what organisers are calling a "Grand Slam first," there will be live pre-match performances every night of the main draw at Rod Laver Arena. It's a bold move that positions the Australian Open as a true sports-and-entertainment hybrid.

The Lineup

The AO LIVE Presents series at John Cain Arena features some of Australia's biggest names:

  • The Kid LAROI – Wednesday 28 January (exclusive Australian show)
  • Spacey Jane – Thursday 29 January
  • Peggy Gou
  • The Veronicas
  • SOFI TUKKER
  • G Flip – with the Dream Ride Tour

Nightly performances will also take place on Grand Slam Oval throughout the tournament.

Why It Works

The Australian Open has always understood that Melbourne loves a party. By integrating live music throughout the tournament—not just as occasional entertainment but as a core offering—Tennis Australia is creating something unique on the global sporting calendar.

For artists, it's a massive platform. For fans, it's a reason to come to Melbourne Park even if you don't have centre court tickets.

Local Artists in the Spotlight

What makes this particularly significant for Australian music is the prominence of local acts. Spacey Jane, the Perth indie-rock favourites whose "Booster Seat" won ARIA Song of the Year and hit #2 in the Hottest 100, will play to a massive crowd on January 29th.

G Flip, whose high-energy drumming and raw vocals have made them a live favourite, brings their Dream Ride Tour to the precinct.

Even The Kid LAROI—now a global star—represents Australian talent making it on the world stage, returning home for an exclusive show.

The Bigger Picture

This is what happens when major events take live music seriously: artists get paid, fans get experiences, and Australian music gets exposure to audiences who might not otherwise seek it out.

The Australian Open runs January 12-26, 2026, at Melbourne Park.

Tickets for AO LIVE Presents shows are available through Ticketek.