The 2025 Australian Open officially begins next week and fans heading to Melbourne Park for the tennis festival have a lot to look forward to.
As always, the event marks the pinnacle of Australian summer swing, with many of the world’s best players flocking from far and wide to compete for glory at the first Grand Slam of the year.
The happy slam always offers plenty of entertainment, fantastic food and drink options and a sensational atmosphere.
But for those looking to enjoy the best the Australian Open has to offer, you may have to part with a pretty penny.
While there haven’t been any massive price increases in the cost of a beer, glass of wine or burger since the 2024 tournament, in our travels around Melbourne Park this week we’ve noticed some price tags that might raise some eyebrows, including the price of a bowl of hot chips.
Fans who want to eat fries will have to pay a whopping $13.50 at some food outlets at the tennis venue, while Greek fries with feta and oregano will cost $15.80.
Fans attending the Australian Open this summer can expect to pay $13.50 for a plate of hot chips.
The Australian Open will have some unique and interesting items in its super stores this year, with the sky blue AO oven mitts being the most prized item.
A 330ml Peroni is priced at $13.50, while prosecco, red wine and sauvignon blanc are $13.95.
At another dining establishment, those looking for something a little more filling might pay $18.10 for a cheeseburger, while a plant-based burger costs a little more at $20.50.
It’s already been a hot week in Melbourne, with temperatures on Wednesday topping 25º. Tennis Australia offers fans many easy-to-access and free-to-use water bottle refill stations.
But if you forget your bottle or fancy something fizzy, you can buy a 750ml soft drink for $5.40 or get a bottle of water, which costs $5.90.
For those looking to enjoy tennis with a stronger drink, a 330ml glass of Peroni costs $13.50 at Bar Centrale located in Garden Square. A full pint isn’t much more expensive, though, costing $14.40 at the Peroni Bar, which is located at the back of the Grand Slam Oval.
A 375ml glass of Somersby cider will set you back $13.00, while a glass of Squealing Pig Prosecco, red wine or white wine will cost $13.95.
Spirits are a little more expensive. A Canadian Club and Dry is $14.75, while a 250ml Gray Goose Lemon Ace is $17.50.
While some may balk at those prices, many major international sporting events are looking for ways to raise more revenue and, over the past five years, have increased their prices.
Wimbledon markedly increased the price of a Pimms jug at the 2024 event, and fans paid $20 for a jug at the English Championships last August.
The Australian Open also sells branded dog leashes, bandanas and collars.
Ralph Lauren has also attracted attention by charging $109 for a specially designed baseball cap.
Those who enjoy tennis and hosting dinner parties can also purchase a set of Australian Open-branded serving spoons.
Dog leashes, bandanas and kitchen gloves
As well as the food, many will be keen to pick up a souvenir from Melbourne Park this year. There are merchandise shops dotted around the venue and Tennis Australia says the tournament “is set to offer its largest collection of merchandise yet.”
They certainly weren’t wrong, there are some unique and interesting items on offer to fans, perhaps the most notable being the Australian Open branded dog collars, bandanas and dog leashes.
Tennis Australia also offers other unique home items, including their Azure blue kitchen gloves, which are priced at $30.
If you’re planning to host a dinner party for tennis-loving friends, Australian Open-branded wooden serving spoons are another must-have. They are priced at $30, while cup holders and charcuterie boards are also on sale.
Something that will surely interest many younger customers are the giant spongy green tennis balls that have returned to the Australian Open Super Stores this year. They sell for $50 each.
Meanwhile, Ralph Lauren towels from the Australian Open are back on sale. Fans can choose from a variety of designs, ranging in price, with one costing $84.
The luxury brand has once again partnered with the Grand Slam to equip ball boys and referees, in addition to providing towels to the players.
But Ralph Lauren has also attracted attention by charging $109 for a specially designed type of baseball cap. The hats are made from a synthetic material and come with the brand’s iconic emblem printed large on the forehead of the hat.
Giant tennis balls are back again this year and the fluffy balls are $50 each
The Australian Open is also selling its own branded caps, which cost $40 each.
By contrast, caps with Australian Open branding and a silver “AO” pin on the forehead will set you back $40.
During the weeks of the tournament, the Australian Open says 13 outlets will be open, along with pop-up stores from Ralph Lauren, New Balance and New Era.
Tennis Australia retail manager Jonathan Lee said in a statement ahead of the tournament: “We are so excited to launch the biggest and best range of AO products, including our super cute mascot collection.”
“Our team has worked tirelessly to offer an incredible range of fun, fashionable and functional products to ensure there is something for everyone.”