Queensland Tennis Centre Archives - Over The Walter Taylor Bridge

Confirmed: Queensland Tennis Centre Set for Major Upgrade for 2032 Olympics

Authorities have confirmed that Tennis Queensland has secured the critical funding it needs, as part of the State’s 2032 Delivery Plan. This investment will support a range of upgrades designed to enhance both player and spectator experiences while leaving a lasting sporting legacy.

Read: Queensland Tennis Centre Needs Upgrades or Risks Losing Olympics

Queensland Tennis Centre Upgrades

The highlight of the expansion is a brand-new 3,000-seat roofed arena, offering an enhanced viewing experience and all-weather capabilities. Additionally, 12 new International Tennis Federation (ITF) specification courts will be constructed to meet the minimum requirements for Olympic and Paralympic competition.

Player facilities will also be upgraded to accommodate the large influx of athletes, support personnel, and spectators expected during the Games.

Tennis Queensland CEO, Cameron Pearson, expressed his enthusiasm for the announcement, emphasising the importance of these upgrades in ensuring the QTC remains a premier venue.

“While the QTC initially met community and event needs when it opened in 2009, it requires essential upgrades to be fit for purpose for the Olympic and Paralympic tennis events – this funding is critical to deliver that,” Pearson stated.

Tennis Australia CEO, Craig Tiley, also welcomed the funding, highlighting the centre’s vital role in the success of the Games.

“The Queensland Tennis Centre is integral to the success of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, and we are delighted to be able to host this major event in what will be a world-class venue,” Tiley said.

“This project will deliver significant economic benefits for Queensland, and at the same time inspire future generations of tennis players and fans, ensuring a lasting legacy that stays within the state for years to come.”

A Lasting Sporting Legacy

Beyond the 2032 Olympics, the Queensland Tennis Centre enhancements will offer long-term benefits by addressing the growing community demand for tennis court access. The upgraded facility will also serve as a premier venue for future major events, including the prestigious Brisbane International.

Read: Ash Barty Comparisons Abound as Emerson Jones Rises from Tennyson Courts

The 2032 Delivery Plan outlines a total of 14 new and existing venue upgrades across Queensland, reflecting the State’s commitment to delivering world-class sporting infrastructure. The Queensland Tennis Centre expansion marks a significant step forward in ensuring Brisbane is well-prepared to host the world’s best athletes while fostering a strong sporting culture for future generations.

Published 26-March-2025

Queensland Tennis Centre Needs Upgrades or Risks Losing Olympics

Brisbane may lose the opportunity to host tennis matches for the 2032 Olympics at the Queensland Tennis Centre in Tennyson if its facilities are not upgraded, Tennis Australia has warned.

Read: Ace Your Game with Team Brisbane Tennis in Tennyson

Tennis Queensland has proposed a $113 million upgrade to the arena, but securing funding remains a challenge. Under the proposed upgrade plan, QTC would gain a new 3,000-seat arena, eight additional courts, and temporary seating for the event. However, Tennis Australia has stressed that Brisbane’s current tennis facilities do not meet the necessary international standards.

A Tennis Australia spokesperson explained that the current facilities do not meet the required standards, which is why Tennis Queensland is seeking additional government funding as part of the Olympic review process. The spokesperson added that if the funding is not secured, Melbourne would be considered as an alternative host city.

The proposal was submitted as part of the 100-day review into infrastructure requirements for the 2032 Games. The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority completed its report on March 8, and Queensland is expected to announce its final delivery plan on March 25.

Photo credit: Rodrigo Correa/Google Maps

Tennis Queensland chief executive Cameron Pearson highlighted the importance of the upgrades, noting that the state does not have enough courts, sufficient seating, or large enough player facilities to meet international standards.

Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell reaffirmed that the state would announce its infrastructure plans soon, emphasising the importance of making the most of the upcoming Olympic period to create a lasting legacy for the state.

Meanwhile, Nick Staikos, minister of Victoria, acknowledged that Melbourne is an attractive option for hosting the Olympics. He remarked that it was not surprising people would consider Melbourne, given its reputation for having some of the best sporting facilities in Australia.

Read: Kimberly Birrell to Lead Australia in Billie Jean King Cup Qualifier at Tennyson

Opposition Labor Shadow Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Grace Grace, called on Queensland Premier David Crisafulli to ensure the event remains in Brisbane. She argued that the investment would provide generational infrastructure for Queenslanders and questioned why future talents, such as the next Ash Barty, should not have access to world-class facilities in their home state.

The upcoming announcement on March 25 will determine whether Brisbane can secure the necessary funding or risk losing one of its Olympic events to Melbourne.

Published 17-March-2025

Brisbane International 2025: Djokovic and World No.1 Sabalenka Lead Lineup at Queensland Tennis Centre

Tennyson is preparing for an unprecedented tennis spectacle as the Brisbane International 2025 approaches, bringing with it one of the strongest player fields in the tournament’s history. From 29 December to 5 January, the Queensland Tennis Centre will transform into a battleground for tennis elite, headlined by 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.

Read: Why the Australia Day Ban Sparked Backlash: Spotlight on Inala Hotel

Djokovic leads all-star lineup at the Queensland Tennis Centre

For local tennis enthusiasts, Djokovic’s return to Brisbane carries special significance. The Serbian superstar, who last graced Pat Rafter Arena during the tournament’s inaugural year in 2009, enters the competition on the brink of an extraordinary milestone—his potential 100th career title.

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The tournament line-up reads like a who’s who of tennis excellence. In the men’s ATP 250 event, Djokovic leads a field featuring defending champion Grigor Dimitrov, rising star Holger Rune, and the charismatic Frances Tiafoe. Australian fans will also cheer for the homegrown favourites: Canberra’s Nick Kyrgios and Sydney’s Alexei Popyrin and Jordan Thompson.

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The women’s WTA 500 event promises equally thrilling matchups. World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka headlines a formidable group that includes Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, and Daria Kasatkina. Two-time Brisbane International champion Victoria Azarenka has also added her name to the mix, while Brisbane’s Ajla Tomljanovic receives a wild card entry.

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Brisbane’s vibrant tennis and lifestyle festival

Tournament director Cam Pearson shared his enthusiasm for the event’s strong player field: “This is by far the strongest field the tournament has seen, with fifteen of the top-20 men and women players confirmed.” Mayor Adrian Schrinner highlighted its significance for Brisbane, saying: “Fans can watch the world’s best tennis stars live and then relive all the action after the match with their friends and family at our vibrant lifestyle precincts.”

Tournament schedule and information

The action begins with qualifying rounds on 27–28 December, followed by the main draw from 29 December to 5 January. The provisional schedule is available on the tournament’s website, offering a detailed guide to key match times.

The official draw ceremony on 28 December will reveal the eagerly awaited matchups. Spectators can access the order of play each evening for the following day’s matches. This dynamic schedule accounts for weather, player recovery periods, and coordination between singles and doubles events, ensuring each day delivers new, exciting matchups.

Read: Oxley Creek to Undergo Major Transformation

For residents of Tennyson and surrounds, Brisbane International 2025 offers unparalleled access to world-class tennis right at their backyard. Tickets start from $30 for adults, with family passes available from $60, making it an affordable outing for local families.

Get your tickets here.

Published 05-December-2024

Brisbane International 2024 Returns to the Pat Rafter Arena

After last taking place in its entirety in 2019, the Brisbane International tennis tournament will make a much-anticipated return to welcome 2024 at the Pat Rafter Arena.

Brisbane International tournament details

To be held from December 31, 2023 to January 7, 2024, the Brisbane International will feature a 32-player draw for both men’s and women’s singles. This marks an expansion of the women’s field from previous years. Top-ranked players will compete for a total prize pool of $3.1 million AUD.

There’s more than 1️⃣ reason that we’re BACK!@Queensland @visitbrisbane #BrisbaneTennis pic.twitter.com/MDtbPMwHQE
— Brisbane International (@BrisbaneTennis) September 18, 2023

The tournament is sanctioned by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP). It serves as a prelude to the Australian Open Grand Slam in Melbourne.

Supported by the government

“It’s terrific to see the much-anticipated return of the Brisbane International tournament to reignite Australia’s summer of tennis,” said Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe. “Tennis fans love this block-buster event, as much as the players love playing at Pat Rafter Arena.”

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the tournament was a “Grand Slam win for the city” and would benefit local businesses. “Our city continues to be the number one choice for international sporting events,” he added.

Former world no.1 Ashleigh Barty endorsed the move to reinstate the event. “The players love to come here, love the atmosphere,” she said. The stadium’s namesake and fellow former world no.1 Pat Rafter also welcomed the tournament’s return.

Australian Summer of Tennis 2024 — Photo Credit: Instagram/Tennis Australia

Together with the United Cup and the Canberra International, the Brisbane International kicks off the Australian Summer of Tennis in 2024. The summer culminates with the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.

Published 17 October 2023

Queensland Tennis Centre, Tennyson to Host ATP Cup and Brisbane International Beginning 2020

Beginning 2020, the Brisbane International — an annual professional tennis tournament held at the Queensland Tennis Centre in Tennyson — will have a new format, as Brisbane secures the rights to the all-new ATP Cup.

The best international players will continue coming back to Brisbane every year and draw local and international fans with the introduction of the new ATP Cup men’s team competition. Featuring teams from 24 countries, the ATP Cup will be played over ten days in the lead to the Australian Open across three cities: Brisbane, Sydney, and a yet to be named third Australian city.

Alongside the ATP Cup men’s team event, the Brisbane International will continue as an elite women’s competition. Brisbane will host key preliminary rounds of the new men’s team competition with the finals to be held in Sydney.

“The iconic Brisbane International attracts tens of thousands of visitors and injects close to $10 million into the state’s economy each year,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

“The ATP Cup will have a bigger international following ensuring we continue to attract tennis fans from around the country and the world to Brisbane to cheer on their favourite players.

“On top of that, the Brisbane International will continue to host the world’s best female players at Tennyson which will be the only women’s tennis event in Australia that week which means we’ll see the best action on court right here in Brisbane,” the Premier said.

The new ATP Cup is expected to attract more high-profile players from around the globe with more prize money and higher ranking points.

“In 2020, the Brisbane International will continue to grow with the world’s best male tennis players beginning their season in Brisbane in the all new ATP Cup which will see the players teaming up to represent their country for a share in 750 ATP Ranking points and $15m USD in prize money,” Tennis Australia Head of Major Events – Cameron Pearson said

The ATP Cup is scheduled to begin in 3 January 2020.

Stellar Line-up of Grand Slam Champs to Highlight Brisbane International 2019 at Tennyson

It will be a star-studded tennis spectacle in Brisbane as seven Grand Slam champions converge at Queensland Tennis Centre in Tennyson for Brisbane International 2019.

Leading the pack is world number 2 Rafael Nadal, who is ready to challenge Novak Djokovic for the world number 1 ranking. Nadal first featured in Brisbane International in 2017, with fans filling up the Queensland Tennis Centre.

“I am really looking forward to starting another season in Brisbane. I’m so excited to be coming back in 2019,” said Nadal.

“The field is always strong and the venue is amazing.”

Rafa, who missed the last couple of months of the 2018 season due to injury, is on track to recovery and is currently playing at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship. He will be playing in Brisbane, then travel to Sydney as part of his preparation for the Australian Open in Melbourne.

“I’m looking forward to coming back to Brisbane, it’s such a great tournament and is always played in front of amazing fans,” Nadal added.

Other Grand Slam champs starting their summer in Brisbane are Andy Murray (GBR), Sloane Stephens (USA), Petra Kvitova (CZE), Jelena Ostapeno (LAT) and Sam Stosur (QLD).

Fans are also sure to have their eyes on Naomi Osaka, who made headlines after winning her first Grand Slam when she beat Serena Williams in the controversial 2018 US Open.

Osaka arrived in Australia on Christmas Eve.

Brisbane International Andy Murray Naomi Osaka — Andy Murray and Naomi Osaka all set for Brisbane International 2019 (Photo credit: naomiosakatennis/Instagram)

Defending men’s champion Nick Kyrgios (ACT) will also be coming back to Brisbane to defend his title. Brisbane’s own, and undoubtedly crowd favourite, John Millman will also feature at this year’s Brisbane International.

Official field for the 2019 Brisbane International:

Men – includes world rankings

Rafael Nadal (ESP) – No.2
Andy Murray (GBR) – No.2 ** Entry Protected
Kei Nishikori (JPN) – No.9
Kyle Edmund (GBR) – No.14
Daniil Medvedev (RUS) – No.16
Milos Raonic (CAN) – No.18
Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) – No.19
Alex De Minaur (NSW) – No.31
John Millman (Qld) – No.34
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) – No.34** Entry Protected
Nick Kyrgios (ACT) – No.36
Jeremy Chardy (FRA) – No.40
Taylor Fritz (USA) – No.49
Ryan Harrison (USA) – No.47
Leonardo Mayer (ARG) – No.56
Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) – No.57
Tennys Sandgren (USA) – No.61
Denis Kudla (USA) – No.63
Aljaz Bedene (SLO) – No.67
Mischa Zverev (GER) – No.69
Jordan Thompson (NSW) – No.72

Women – includes world rankings

Elina Svitolina (UKR) – No.4
Naomi Osaka (JPN) – No.5
Sloane Stephens (USA) – No.6
Petra Kvitova (CZE) – No. 7
Karolina Pliskova (CZE) – No.8
Kiki Bertens (NED) – No.9
Daria Kasatkina (RUS) – No.10
Anastasija Sevastova (LAT) – No.12
Elise Mertens (BEL) – No.13
Anna Kontaveit (EST) – No.21
Carla Suarez Navarro (ESP) – No.23
Mihaela Buzarnescu (ROU) – No.24
Camila Giorgi (ITA) – No.26
Lesia Tsurenko (UKR) – No.27
Aliaksandra Sasnovich (BLR) – No.30
Katerina Siniakova (CZE) – No.31
Donna Vekic (CRO) – No.34
Danielle Collins (USA) – No.35
Daria Gavrilova (Vic) – No.36
Johanna Konta (GBR) – No.37
Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) – No.43
Yulia Putintseva (KAZ) – No.45
Samantha Stosur (AUS) – No.73 (WC)

Watching the games at Ticket holders can avail of free transport to and from Queensland Tennis Centre via Queensland Rail train and Brisbane Transport bus services.

Yeerongpilly Green Opens Pedestrian Link in Time for Brisbane International

Tennis fans looking forward to the upcoming Brisbane International in December 2018 will have a much easier transport after the Yeerongpilly Green opened its public parks and pedestrian ‘spine.’

Yeerongpilly Green is an $850-million master-planned development that will incorporate residential, retail, commercial and lifestyle spaces. The Queensland Government has put in $30 million in investment for community infrastructure and green space for the urban renewal precinct.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said that the State Government contribution is important in realising a community where the architecture is inspired by the landscape.

“The pedestrian walkway provides a perfect link from the train station through the site, creating a direct route to the Queensland Tennis Centre, Ken Fletcher Park and Tennyson Reach,” he said.

“This enhanced connectivity between Pat Rafter Arena and the railway station is going to make getting to and from the Brisbane International so much easier.

“Around 90,000 people attend this great tournament over its seven days, so this infrastructure is really vital to managing the masses and growing the event further.”

Tennis Queensland CEO Mark Handley applauded the opening of the Yeerongpilly Green and the pedestrian spine, which will redefine the journey of tennis fans as they get off the train.

“Whether people are attending the Brisbane International, or just visiting the Queensland Tennis Centre throughout the year, their walk towards the iconic Pat Rafter Arena will now be so much more, with restaurants and social spaces enhancing the experience,” Mr Handley said.

“The beautification of the Yeerongpilly precinct makes it an even more attractive pocket of Brisbane for residents, families, and everyone using the tennis centre.”

Brisbane’s Next Lifestyle Village

Yeerongpilly Green promises to be the city’s next lifestyle village. Perfectly positioned near Tennyson, Graceville, Chelmer and Sherwood, the urban village is within reach of the best attractions and facilities in the city.

The community will be surrounded by various parks specialty retail establishments to create a laidback village atmosphere. Once completed, Yeerongpilly Green will have 3,000 new homes and a varied line-up of commercial, including a boutique hotel.

At the centre of the development is the 2.4 hectares of parkland and open space. The pedestrian and cycle network provides an interesting link between the new precinct to the Yeerongpilly Station to the tennis centre.

“People now have a fantastic space to enjoy, on their way to the tennis centre or experiencing the restaurants, parks, playgrounds, and future apartments and offices of Yeerongpilly Green,” Member for Miller Mark Bailey stressed.