Australian Open Expands Entertainment Footprint with AO Live Opening Week

In a significant development for the Australian Open, Live Nation Australia and the tournament organizers have announced the launch of a new 4-night concert series called AO Live Opening Week. Set to take place from January 13-16, 2026, the series will bring a lineup of global electronic acts to the TOPCOURT venue on Birrarung Marr, adjacent to the Melbourne Park tennis complex.

The concert series aims to elevate the entertainment experience for fans, aligning the Australian Open with the growing trend of major sporting events integrating large-scale live music programming. The lineup includes renowned acts such as Hot Chip, Elderbrook, Cassian, and The Presets, each set to perform headline evening sets against the backdrop of the Melbourne skyline.

According to Live Nation promoter Mike Ross, the partnership seeks to "open the tournament like never before," blending international talent with local artists and leveraging the AO's outdoor setting. AO Entertainment Experience Producer Gus Carmichael echoed this sentiment, stating that the new series is designed to "start the Australian Open with a bang," positioning the event as a cultural moment as much as a sporting one.

The announcement comes on the heels of the reveal that singer, songwriter, and actor Reneé Rapp will be the fifth and final headliner for the AO LIVE Presents series at the 2026 Australian Open, marking her first performance in Australia.