Federation Square will be renamed Tennis Square this summer … just for Australian Open 2009.

For the duration of the Open, Channel Seven will broadcast tennis on the giant screen and an Australian Open merchandise store and NIKE outlet will be open.

Top players will make special appearances, and between Thursday 22 January and Sunday 25 January 2009 Tennis Australia will conduct a variety of free interactive tennis activities, including Aviva Tennis Hot Shots and Talent Search.  

“Participation in these activities will be free of charge and will be focussed towards families and young children,” Tennis Australia’s General Manager of Community Tennis Robin O’Neill said.

“The activities test your speed and agility around the tennis court, with the Slalom Sprint, the kids get to be ‘Hot Shots’ and learn the fundamentals of tennis whilst everyone can practice their accuracy with Hit the Target and compete for the fastest serve.

“Scorecards will also be available for all kids to record their personal best performances with the opportunity to collect some great prizes.”

Last year Federation Square attracted more than 356,000 people in a 12-day period during the Australian Open.

Limited numbers of single session tickets for Rod Laver Arena and Hisense Arena, and the popular $29.00 ground pass are available through Ticketek.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketek.com.au or 1300 888 104.