COURTSIDE ENERGY WITH PICKLEBALL, POMMERY AND STARS

Published in Melbourne, 19 January 2026

SOFITEL MELBOURNE ON COLLINS SERVES UP AUSTRALIAN OPEN ENERGY WITH PICKLEBALL,
POMMERY, AND AN EXCLUSIVE PLAYER EVENT

Sofitel Melbourne On Collins is celebrating the Australian Open season in signature style with a curated program of in-hotel activations designed to bring guests closer to Melbourne’s most anticipated sporting event. From a branded pickleball court takeover in Sofi’s Lounge to a chic Pommery Champagne pop-up and a special player Q&A event, the hotel is set to become a social hub throughout the summer of tennis.

Running from 19 January to 1 February 2026, Sofitel’s Australian Open program transforms Sofi’s Lounge into a vibrant destination for tennis fans, visitors and locals alike, along with specially curated menus inspired by the energy of the tournament. With increased seating this year, the lounge offers an elevated setting to connect, unwind and take in the atmosphere during one of Melbourne’s most exciting periods.

A highlight of the program was an exclusive Q&A event held on 16 January 2026, offering guests the rare opportunity to hear firsthand insights from Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas. Moderated by TV presenter, Georgie Tunny, the conversation explored his tennis heritage, mindset and life on tour, providing an intimate experience for guests.  Superstar Venus Williams was a special guest at the event and enjoyed a friendly hit of pickleball with Tsitsipas in Sofi’s Courtside Lounge, refereed by entertainer Rob Mills.

Sofitel Melbourne On Collins has long been a preferred address for international sporting talent visiting Melbourne, having hosted renowned players including Serena Williams and Qinwen Zheng in recent years. The hotel’s Australian Open activations continue this legacy, reinforcing its position as a luxury destination where global events intersect with thoughtfully curated experiences.

“Melbourne is a city defined by major moments, and we’re proud to bring our guests closer to the excitement and personalities that make the Australian Open so special,” said Stephan Leroy, General Manager, Sofitel Melbourne On Collins. “Our Australian Open program reflects Sofitel’s commitment to celebrating culture and excellence, this time through the lens of world-class sport.”

Throughout the tournament, guests can watch matches live in Sofi’s Lounge, where the tennis pop-up will feature a mega 5m x 3m LED viewing screen, deck chairs, a Pommery Champagne pop-up cart, a pickleball court and bespoke floral installations inspired by the Australian Open. Located just 1.6 kilometres from Melbourne Park, many rooms offer views across the precinct, allowing guests to feel immersed in the action while enjoying the comfort of a luxury retreat.