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22 January 2025 | Tennis Victoria

Breakfast with the Stars Marks 50 Years of the Women’s Tennis Foundation

On Tuesday January 14, the Women’s Tennis Foundation (WTF) hosted its annual Breakfast with the Stars event, which this year marked a particularly special milestone: the foundation’s 50th anniversary. Held during Week 1 of the Australian Open at Royal South Yarra Lawn Tennis Club, the event brought together players, coaches, and the broader tennis community to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women and girls in tennis.

The morning commenced with an introduction by Australian tennis star Storm Hunter, who welcomed attendees to the celebratory gathering. The event was emceed by Keryn Pratt, esteemed sports broadcaster and former professional tennis player, who spoke passionately about the WTF’s purpose, “women banding together… to make something happen.” The prestigious Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup, the Australian Open’s women’s trophy, was also on display. Its presence reflected the foundation’s mission – empowering women and inspiring future generations to thrive on the global stage.

Nicole Pratt, WTF President and former professional player with a 19-year career, reflected on the foundation’s legacy of empowering female athletes. She highlighted the impact of the Player Scholarship Program, which has supported emerging talents like Hunter and Taylor Preston.

Special guest Wendy Turnbull, a retired tennis icon and winner of nine Grand Slam titles, recounted the formation of the WTF or the Australian Women’s Tennis Association (AWTA) as she recalled, and its enduring mission to support women and girls in tennis. Elizabeth Peers took the audience on a journey through the foundation’s history, including the remarkable 30-year presidency of Judy Dalton nine-time grand slam champion, winning doubles titles at Wimbledon, the US and French Opens, and the Australian Open three times, and in her tenure as president, shaped the foundation’s vision and legacy.

Dalton herself addressed the audience, sharing the WTF’s impressive contributions: over $150,000 in scholarship funding has been distributed to 20 players, including notable names like Olivia Gadecki, Zoe Hives, Storm Hunter, and Jaimee Fourlis.

In a heartwarming moment, Storm Hunter announced the latest recipients of the WTF scholarships, each awarded $5,000 to assist with tennis-related costs. Among the recipients was our very own Victorian player, Elena Micic. Elena recently achieved an incredible feat, reaching the final round of the Australian Open Qualifiers, showcasing her potential as a future tennis star.

Elena Micic, Scholarship recipient

Reflecting on the scholarship, Elena expressed her gratitude; “Being a recipient of the Women’s Tennis Foundation scholarship is an incredible honour. It’s inspiring to be recognised alongside such talented athletes, and the support will go a long way in helping me achieve my goals. I’m proud to be part of this amazing community.”

The event also provided an opportunity to celebrate the ongoing efforts of the WTF in creating a future where every girl and woman can thrive through tennis. With a focus on advocacy, research, and community impact, the foundation’s mission to continue to transform the game is clear.

Women and Girls Day at AO25

The Breakfast with the Stars was a fitting prelude to Women and Girls Day at the Australian Open, Thursday 23 January – a day of celebrating women and girls with a range of activations across the precinct! You can view the full schedule here.

  • 10:30 AM Outdoor Courts & 11 AM Rod Laver Arena 
    A group of Hot Shots girls and female coaches will take part in Kids on Court on the outside courts and Rod Laver Arena tomorrow morning ahead of match play
  • 12 PM TOPCOURT – Padel and POP courts 
    A group of teenage girls from Tennis Australia’s Learn 2 Lead program will be trying Pop and Padel on TOP COURT
  • 4 PM Zinc – Federation Square 
    Returning for its ninth edition, the AO Inspirational Series will showcase women’s success and empowerment at one of the most highly anticipated off-court events at the AO

AO Inspirational Series

The AO Inspirational Series has become a cornerstone of the Australian Open, showcasing diverse voices from the worlds of sport, arts, business, and philanthropy. This year, there will be a special guest appearance from Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki. “As the tournament where I enjoyed my greatest success, the Australian Open holds a special place in my heart and I always love coming back here. I’m looking forward to sharing my experiences and connecting with others who are passionate about inspiring change and celebrating women,” Wozniacki stated.

Joining her, Sophie Delezio will tell her powerful story of resilience, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to triumph over adversity. “It’s such a privilege to share my story in an environment that celebrates resilience, determination and community – such strong values the resonate throughout the game of tennis,” said Delezio.

The guest speakers will be in good company. Australian tennis legend and trailblazer, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, Judy Datlon and Tyra Banks, international model, entrepreneur, television presenter and creator will all be in attendance. This event is not one to miss!

The special day concludes with the Women’s Singles Semifinals from 7 PM under lights at Rod Laver Arena. The match will feature an all-girls ball kid squad and a coin toss with one of our Super 10s girls.

We hope to see you for an action-packed day tomorrow!

For more information on Women and Girls programs in Victoria and how you can get involved, please see here.