By Tennis Now | @TennisNow | Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Photo credit: Rolex
When champions play for history on Rod Laver Arena this month, history will be looking over their shoulder.
The 2025 Australian Open marks double celebration for legendary Rocket Rod Laver.
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The only champion in history to win the calendar Grand Slam as an amateur and again as a professional, Laver will be a busy man during the AO fortnight.
It marks the 25th anniversary of the Australian Open renaming its center court Rod Laver Arena and it’s the 65th anniversary of the Rockhampton Rocket winning his maiden major at the 1960 Australian Open.
Laver, who was on hand for Jannik Sinner’s maiden major breakthrough in Melbourne last year, went on to capture 11 Grand Slam championships.
Rolex, which became Australian Open Official Timekeeper in 2008, shared these Laver images.
“Rolex being part of the Australian Open is important for tennis and for our country on the global stage,” Laver said. “It is a partnership that I have seen thrive over many years.
“I feel honored that Australia has recognized my tennis achievements by putting my name on that beautiful big stadium. It is a great feeling to know that through this court, the legacy of my career continues in the sport today.”
Like the legendary Laver, defending Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner is a red-haired, explosive shotmaker.
Fresh off his run to the ATP Finals championship and leading Italy to its second straight Davis Cup championship, Sinner said he’s pumped to return to Oz.
“Every season has its own story, and you never know what will happen, but for us, it always starts in Australia, which I’m very happy about,” Sinner said. “I always feel good playing at Melbourne Park. I really love the people and the fans—there is a great energy.”
