The Australian Open is in full swing, with record crowds packing the courts in Melbourne. But not everyone is thrilled about the electric atmosphere. Some players, including superstars Novak Djokovic and Danielle Collins, have criticized the rowdiness of certain fans, linking the behavior to excessive alcohol consumption on the grounds.
However, Australian Open boss Craig Tiley is pushing back on the notion that spectators have become more unruly. In a statement Wednesday, Tiley asserted that the number of fans being ejected for disruptive actions is “no different” than in previous years, despite the swelling attendance figures.
“You’re always going to have one or two. We’ve made it very clear anyone that comes onto the site that is going to be disruptive to the enjoyment of the people around them are not going to be welcome.”
– Craig Tiley, Australian Open Tournament Director
Bigger Crowds, Bigger Controversy?
There’s no question that the 2025 Australian Open is drawing massive crowds. The tournament has consistently smashed daily attendance records and is on track to surpass the all-time mark of 1.02 million set just last year.
To accommodate the influx of fans, organizers have expanded the Melbourne Park precinct with sponsor activations, special events, and an array of new food and beverage options – including additional court-side bar areas. Some have speculated that the party-like atmosphere and emphasis on alcohol sales may be contributing to more boisterous spectator behavior.
But Tiley maintains that the “energy” of the crowds is a net positive for the event and the players, even if a few bad apples sneak through. He praised Australian fans as some of “the most educated in the world” and applauded their enthusiasm.
A Balancing Act
Managing a major international sporting event like the Australian Open requires striking a delicate balance. Organizers want to create an engaging, immersive experience that will draw fans and generate buzz. The charged environment clearly appeals to the hundreds of thousands flocking to Melbourne Park.
At the same time, tennis is a sport of concentration and precision. While most spectators respect etiquette and refrain from disrupting play, even a few unruly fans can disturb the athletes and spoil the fun for those around them. It’s a difficult line to walk.
For now, Tiley and the Australian Open team believe they have the right safeguards in place to maintain order while still embracing the passion of the record-setting crowds. They emphasize that security will swiftly remove any patrons “not welcome” due to disruptive behavior.
Looking Ahead
As the Australian Open looks to the future, organizers are focused on enhancing the fan experience while managing the growing pains that come with soaring popularity. Tiley hinted that the tournament is exploring options for expanding and upgrading facilities, in collaboration with the Victoria government.
- Potential development plans include:
- Adding more space and courts
- Improving crowd flow and line management
- Offering more diverse dining and entertainment
The goal, Tiley says, is to keep evolving the event while remaining “self-sufficient” – not necessarily to squeeze more money from public coffers. It’s a vision that will require deft planning and diplomacy.
In the meantime, the show must go on at Melbourne Park. As the 2025 Australian Open heads into its final days, event chiefs will be closely monitoring crowd behavior and response. They’re banking on the vast majority of fans to enjoy the electric atmosphere responsibly, without crossing lines that could tarnish the tournament’s reputation. If successful, it could serve as a model for other major sporting competitions seeking to maximize engagement while minimizing disruption.
