Overview

• The Australian Open continues to experiment with 'sportainment,' blending tennis with entertainment-focused fan experiences like the popular 'party court.'
• Some players, including Novak Djokovic and Jack Draper, have expressed frustration with rowdy fans disrupting matches, with Draper calling it the worst abuse he's experienced.
• Tennis Australia reported no significant increase in crowd-related incidents compared to previous years, despite anecdotal perceptions of heightened rowdiness.
• Opinions remain divided, with some praising the energy and inclusivity of the new fan experience, while others criticize it as disrespectful to the sport's traditions.
• Organizers plan to expand entertainment-driven elements in future tournaments, emphasizing the importance of engaging broader audiences to sustain tennis's growth.