CHANNEL 7’s HOT SUMMER OF TENNIS
Channel 7 is set to serve up another sizzling summer of tennis from Brisbane,
Sydney and then Melbourne, culminating in the first Grand Slam of the year, the
Australian Open.
Arguably the greatest rivalry in world sports is set to continue in Melbourne. Many
experts predict Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer will again face off in the final,
with Nadal going for his fourth Grand Slam in a row, the ‘Rafa slam’, and Federer
in hot form after his recent ATP World Tour Finals win. But expect Brit Andy
Murray going for his first Slam, previous winner Novak Djokovic and World No. 5
Robyn Soderling to be snapping at their heels.
The race for the women’s title has been blown wide open with the absence of
five-time winner Serena Williams. Can Kim Clijsters step up and win? Or will local
girl Sam Stosur salute in an historic hometown win?
Channel 7 will commence its primetime coverage at 7pm in week one, and
7.30pm in week two. Prime time finals for the men’s and women’s singles
attracted an average audience of 2.42million and 1.89million viewers respectively
in 2010 eclipsing the previous year.
As well as the Grand Slam of Asia/Pacific, Channel 7 will cover the Australian
Open series tournaments including the Brisbane International and Medibank
International in Sydney, as well as the AAMI Kooyong Classic in Melbourne.
Seven’s summer of tennis will be headed by JOHANNA GRIGGS, MATT WHITE
and HAMISH MCLACHLAN with BRUCE McAVANEY back in the commentary
chair and expert commentary from four-time Grand Slam champion JIM
COURIER and former British No.1 SAM SMITH.
Joining them in the Channel 7 commentary box will be the most successful
doubles player in men’s tennis history TODD WOODBRIDGE, Gael Monfils’
coach ROGER RASHEED, HENRI LECONTE, NICOLE BRADTKE, RENNAE
STUBBS, SANDY ROBERTS, JOHN FITZGERALD, ALLAN STONE, PETER
DONEGAN and KERRYN PRATT.
ROAD TO THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2011
BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
WHEN: January 2 – 9, 2011
WHERE: Queensland Tennis Centre, Brisbane
HOST: Johanna Griggs
COMMENTATORS: John Fitzgerald, Todd Woodbridge, Roger Rasheed, Sam
Smith and Rennae Stubbs
DESCRIPTION:
Australia’s No.1 player, Samantha Stosur, and 2010 men’s singles champion
Andy Roddick will headline the Brisbane International in 2011 and for the third
year in a row Marcos Baghdatis will start his Australian Open preparation in
Brisbane.
Other players heading to Brisbane for the Brisbane International 2011 are world
number nine Fernando Verdasco, Nadia Petrova, Daniela Hantuchova, Robin
Soderling, Richard Gasquet and Mardy Fish.
Brisbane International dates and telecast times
MONDAY JANUARY 3
– 11.30am – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30am – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 11am – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8.30am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
TUESDAY JANUARY 4
– 11.30am – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30am – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 11am – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8.30am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 5 (DAY SESSION)
– 11.30am – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30am – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 11am – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8.30am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 5 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Brisbane
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Adelaide
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Perth
THURSDAY JANUARY 6 (DAY SESSION)
– 11.30am – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30am – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 11am – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8.30am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
ROAD TO THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2011
Brisbane International dates and telecast times
THURSDAY JANUARY 6 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Brisbane
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Adelaide
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Perth
FRIDAY JANUARY 7 (DAY SESSION)
– 12pm – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 11am– 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 11.30am – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 9am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
FRIDAY JANUARY 7 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Brisbane
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Adelaide
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Perth
SATURDAY JANUARY 8 (DAY SESSION)
– 1pm – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 12pm– 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 12.30pm – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 10am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
SATURDAY JANUARY 8 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 9.30pm – 11.30pm in Sydney and Melbourne
– 9.30pm – 11.30pm in Brisbane
– 9.30pm – 11.30pm in Adelaide
– 9.30pm – 11.30pm in Perth
SUNDAY JANUARY 9
– 12pm – COP LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 11am – COP LIVE in Brisbane
– 11.30am – COP LIVE in Adelaide
– 9am – COP LIVE in Perth
ROAD TO THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2011
MEDIBANK INTERNATIONAL
WHEN: January 9 – 15, 2011
WHERE: Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney
DAY (AND MEN’S FINAL) HOST: Johanna Griggs
NIGHT HOST: Todd Woodbridge
COMMENTATORS: Kerryn Pratt, Sam Smith, Allan Stone, Garry Wilkinson and
Todd Woodbridge
DESCRIPTION:
Grand Slam champions Kim Clijsters, Ana Ivanovic and Juan Martin Del Potro,
along with defending champion Marcos Baghdatis and Australia’s No.1 player,
Samantha Stosur, will all headline January’s Medibank International Sydney.
This event has grown since 1885 to be one of a handful of tournaments on the
entire circuit that highlights the top men and women competing in the same
week. Played at one of the world’s best tennis facilities at Sydney Olympic Park,
past champions have included Rod Laver, John Newcombe, Pete Sampras,
Margaret Court, Evonne Goolagong Cawley, Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert.
Medibank International Sydney dates and telecast times
SUNDAY JANUARY 9
– End of BRIS INTL – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– End of BRIS INTL – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– End of BRIS INTL – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– End of BRIS INTL – 2pm LIVE in Perth
MONDAY JANUARY 10
– 11am – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
TUESDAY JANUARY 11
– 11am – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 12 (DAY SESSION)
– End of AAMI – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– End of AAMI – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– End of AAMI – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– End of AAMI – 2pm LIVE in Perth
ROAD TO THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2011
Medibank International Sydney dates and telecast times
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 12 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Brisbane
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Adelaide
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Perth
THURSDAY JANUARY 13 (DAY SESSION)
– End of AAMI – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– End of AAMI – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– End of AAMI – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– End of AAMI – 2pm LIVE in Perth
THURSDAY JANUARY 13 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Brisbane
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Adelaide
– 10.30pm – 12.30am in Perth
FRIDAY JANUARY 14 (DAY SESSION)
– End of AAMI – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– End of AAMI – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– End of AAMI – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– End of AAMI – 2pm LIVE in Perth
FRIDAY JANUARY 14 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 9.30pm – 11.30pm in Sydney and Melbourne
– 9.30pm – 11.30pm in Brisbane
– 9.30pm – 11.30pm in Adelaide
– 9.30pm – 11.30pm in Perth
SATURDAY JANUARY 15
– 7.30pm – 9.30pm in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7.30pm – 9.30pm in Brisbane
– 7.30pm – 9.30pm in Adelaide
– 7.30pm – 9.30pm in Perth
ROAD TO THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2011
AAMI KOOYONG CLASSIC
WHEN: January 12 – 15, 2011
WHERE: Kooyong, Melbourne
HOST: Chris Dittmar
COMMENTATORS: Peter Donegan, John Fitzgerald and Roger Rasheed
DESCRIPTION:
This is a fan-friendly “round robin” type event featuring eight of the world’s best
tennis players. Played over four days, just before the Open, it’s traditionally a
hard-fought competition especially due to the high calibre of players.
Former world No. 1 and Australia’s top-ranked player Lleyton Hewitt headlines
the AAMI Kooyong Classic in 2010. Leading the overseas brigade, and also
making his first appearance, will be Czech TOMAS BERDYCH. Russian, Mikhail
Youzhny, current AAMI Classic champion Fernando Verdasco, Frenchman JoWilfried Tsonga and Gael Monfils make up another outstanding draw at Kooyong.
AAMI Kooyong Classic dates and telecast times
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 12
– 11am –COP LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – COP Two LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – COP Two LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – COP LIVE in Perth
THURSDAY JANUARY 13
– 11am – COP LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – COP LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – COP LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – COP Two LIVE in Perth
FRIDAY JANUARY 14 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – COP LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – COP LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – COP LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – COP LIVE in Perth
FRIDAY JANUARY 14 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 11.30pm – 1.30am in Sydney and Melbourne
– 11.30pm – 1.30am in Brisbane
– 11.30pm – 1.30am in Adelaide
– 11.30pm – 1.30am in Perth
SATURDAY JANUARY 15
– 1pm – 5pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 12pm – 4pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 12.30pm – 4.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 10am – 2pm LIVE in Perth
Australian Open 2011 dates and telecast times
MONDAY JANUARY 17 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
MONDAY JANUARY 17 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
TUESDAY JANUARY 18 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
TUESDAY JANUARY 18 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 19 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 19 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
THURSDAY JANUARY 20 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
THURSDAY JANUARY 20 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
Australian Open 2011 dates and telecast times
FRIDAY JANUARY 21 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
FRIDAY JANUARY 21 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
SATURDAY JANUARY 22 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
SATURDAY JANUARY 22 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 6.30pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 6.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 6.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 6.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
SUNDAY JANUARY 23 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
SUNDAY JANUARY 23 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 6.30pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 6.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 6.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 6.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
MONDAY JANUARY 24 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
MONDAY JANUARY 24 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
Australian Open 2011 dates and telecast times
TUESDAY JANUARY 25 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
TUESDAY JANUARY 25 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 26 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
WEDNESDAY JANUARY 26 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
THURSDAY JANUARY 27 (DAY SESSION)
– 11am – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 10am – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 10.30am – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 8am – 3pm LIVE in Perth
THURSDAY JANUARY 27 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Brisbane
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Adelaide
– 7.30pm – 12.30am (COP) in Perth
Australian Open 2011 dates and telecast times
FRIDAY JANUARY 28 (DAY SESSION)
– 3pm – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 2pm – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 2.30pm – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 12pm – 3pm LIVE in Perth
FRIDAY JANUARY 28 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 7.30pm – 9.30pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 7.30pm – 9.30pm in Brisbane
– 7.30pm – 9.30pm in Adelaide
– 7.30pm – 9.30pm in Perth
SATURDAY JANUARY 29
– 6.30pm – 10.30pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 6.30pm – 9.30pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 6.30pm – 10pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 6.30pm – 9.30pm in Perth
SUNDAY JANUARY 30 (DAY SESSION)
– 4pm – 6pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 3pm – 5pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 3.30pm – 5.30pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 1pm – 3pm LIVE in Perth
SUNDAY JANUARY 30 (NIGHT SESSION)
– 6.30pm – 10.30pm LIVE in Sydney and Melbourne
– 6.30pm – 9.30pm LIVE in Brisbane
– 6.30pm – 10pm LIVE in Adelaide
– 6.30pm – 9.30pm in Perth
BRUCE MCAVANEY
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
In 2011 Bruce steps back into the commentary box after an extended stint of
hosting at the Australian Open.
When asked who will be in the mix to win the men’s title Bruce says since Safin
beat Hewitt in the ’05 Final at Melbourne Park, Federer and Nadal have won 21
of the last 23 Grand Slam titles between them.
“Their rivalry is unparalleled in world sport. What makes this Open even more
intriguing is Nadal’s opportunity to win a fourth consecutive major, something not
even Federer has achieved. There are three tiers of favourites: firstly, Nadal and
Federer, then Murray and Djokovic and then the third group, which includes
Soderling, Berdych, Cilic and Del Potro and Tsonga, but the latter two depend on
their ability to be fully fit after injuries.”
On the women’s side of the draw Bruce feels the absence of Serena Williams will
make a big difference.
“She’s won five of the last seven Australian Opens she’s contested. Unlike the
men, this is very open. In 2010, there were 37 different winners on the tour but
only two women won more than two tournaments. They were Wozniacki with six,
and Clijsters with five. But, significantly, Clijsters won a major, and in doing so,
extended her remarkable record at the US Open.
“With a similar surface in Melbourne, she deserves to be favourite, just in front of
Wozniacki, the world No. 1, but just a single major final and Henin, who’s made
the final in three of her last four attempts at the Aussie Open in Melbourne, but
whose 2010 season was derailed by injury after such a promising comeback.
“The second group with a genuine chance are headed by the Russians
Sharapova and Zvonareva, and our own Sam Stosur. I’m leaving out Venus and
the Serbians and a couple of other Russians but it’s a tough title to predict.”
When it comes to sports broadcasting in Australia, Bruce has no equal. No one
matches his depth of knowledge, dedication to the job or extensive preparation.
Dubbed the “mastercaster”, he has hosted and commentated almost every major
sporting event in Australia including the AFL Grand Final, Brownlow Medal,
Melbourne Cup, Bathurst 1000, Australian Open tennis, Australian Masters Golf,
Bledisloe Cup and Tri-Nations Rugby, and every Olympic Games since 1980.
JOHANNA GRIGGS
HOST
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
- BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
- MEDIABANK INTERNATIONAL
Johanna Griggs is a genuine sports fanatic. Her love of tennis makes the
Australian Open for her the best fortnight of sport in Australia each year and
every year new favourite memories are added to her list.
“Last year I loved the interview Jim and I got with Roger Federer after his win.
Then to see how gracious he was with all of his fans who waited patiently for him
to finish his media commitments. I was blown away by what a class act he is and
always has been. It was a nice way to end our 2010 coverage.”
When it comes to 2011 winners, on the women’s side of the draw Johanna sees
the usual suspects going deep into the second week, including Venus Williams,
Kim Clisters, Dinara Safina, Svetlana Kuznetsova, Caroline Wozniacki and Sam
Stosur
“In fact I’d love to see Sam Stosur break through for her first Australian Open win
as she is just such a lovely lady and it would be fabulous for her to win at home.”
“As for a winner on the men’s side, I’m favouring Rafa – the current No. 1. We
know he enjoys playing at Melbourne Park and as long as he remains injury free
between now and the end of 2010… and starts back fresh in 2011, I’d be rapt to
see him win again.”
Johanna’s passion for sport is only natural. The former world-ranked backstroker
was just 16 when selected for the Auckland Games, where she won bronze in the
100m backstroke. She was also the first Australian female swimmer to break the
30 second barrier for the 50m backstroke. After retiring from swimming in May
1993, Johanna joined Seven. Johanna reported for shows such as Sportsworld
and Sydney Weekender and hosted The AFL Half Time Show. She went on to
become Seven’s first female (and youngest ever) presenter of the weekend
sports news.
Johanna has co-hosted a number of sporting events such as Olympic Sunrise
during the Sydney Olympics, the Medibank International, the Australian Open
tennis, the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics, the 2004 Athens Olympics, 2006
Torino Olympics, 2008 Beijing Olympics as well as hosting the shows
Sportsworld, Auction Squad and most recently, the top-rating Better Homes and
Gardens. Johanna is also the weekend sport presenter for Seven News in
Sydney.
MATT WHITE
HOST
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
“I love the fact that the global tennis year starts on our doorstop. This event is
truly world class but still uniquely Australian. The players love it, the fans love it and I love working on it,” says Matt White.
When asked for his favourite Australian Open memories Matt says:
“On-air, working side-by-side with the incredible Jim Courier - you never really
know what he's going to say!”
“And standing courtside in 2010 when the greatest players in the world were
putting on a show on Rod Laver Arena for the Haiti Earthquake fundraiser - great
tennis, a great cause and great fun.”
And in 2011 Matt still believes it’s about Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal and
then the rest.
“The top players always lift at the Australian Open so I can't see a surprise
winner from outside the Top 5 in the men's. There'll be some twists and turns
along the way, but Rafael Nadal will clearly be the one to beat.”
For the women, Matthew usually finds it impossible to look past the Williams
sisters, but with Serena out with injury the draw may open up a little.
“Being the first Grand Slam of the year, it's always wise to look at the top of the
rankings. Caroline Wozniaki and Kim Clijsters will go deep into the second week,
but I have a feeling 2011 may be Sam Stosur's year. Sam is due to win a major
soon - and the Australian Open is the perfect fit.”
Matthew’s career in journalism began as a reporter at The Manly Daily, which led
to his start in broadcast journalism, presenting the news on NEWFM in
Newcastle. Matthew’s love of sport and natural ability in front of the camera
landed him the role of weekend sports presenter with NBN Newcastle.
He later became the first host of Channel Ten’s sports program Sports Tonight.
Matthew also has extensive experience in anchoring and commentating major
sports events and telecasts such as the V8 Supercars, Tri-Nations and Bledisloe
Cup Rugby, Formula One Motor Racing, the Melbourne Cup, the Uncle Toby’s
IronMan Series, US Open Golf tournaments, AFL Grand Finals, the 2004 Athens
Olympics, 2006 Torino Olympics and 2008 Beijing Olympics. Matt is also the host
of the east coast edition of Today Tonight.
HAMISH McLACHLAN
HOST
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Hamish McLachlan comes from a strong sporting background with management
and broadcast experience on a national and international level with sports
including AFL, Olympics, tennis and cricket.
Over the past three years Hamish has hosted Channel 7’s AFL Game Day
alongside some of the biggest names in the game including Leigh Matthews,
Matthew Richardson and Tim Watson.
Hamish has also featured in Channel 7’s Melbourne Cup Carnival racing
coverage and provided commentary at the Australian Open tennis.
A lover of sport since childhood tennis was always high on high on the agenda
through his teen years before being riddled with 10 knee operations.
“It is a lonely place a tennis court. There is now where to hide. It is just you. No
trainer in the corner, no team mate, no coach, no one in your ear or yelling out of
a car to you as you ride. It is you, and your opponent,” says Hamish.
“I reckon tennis is the ultimate gladiator sport. The Australian Open brings those
players to us here in Melbourne and allows us 14 days to watch the very best in
the world from three feet away, to sort out who can win seven matches in a row.
“In Raffa and Roger we have two Gods of the sport. You need to be aware that
we have been treated for the past five years or so and are still being served up
one of the world’s greatest ever sporting rivalries that will be discussed for
generations to come.
“They are both hitting the ball as well as they ever have – the ATP Final in
London another sensational encounter, they are both fit, and as a result of having
each other to challenge themselves, they are both seemingly as hungry as they
have ever been to win Grand Slams. I think Roger will win it. I say that without
confidence because with Raffa about, it is never an easy essay and he is
shooting for the “Raffa Slam”.
On the women’s side Hamish fancies Kim Clijsters chances:
“I will go with Kim to win here again and join Roger to make it a ‘Mums and Dads
Slam’”.
SANDY ROBERTS
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Sandy is one of Australia’s most successful sportscasters, working across many
sports for Channel 7 for the past 37 years. Equally at home on the court or in the
studio, Sandy is once again looking forward to setting up courtside for the
Australian Open.
Commenting on the special place the Australian Open holds on the international
tennis scene Sandy says:
“It’s the first Grand Slam of the year so it tends to throw in some surprising
results. But the bottom line is we are seeing the very best working on the craft
they have perfected.”
On the court Sandy makes a bold prediction that will please the British and steers
away from the Federer and Nadal predictions of most pundits.
“Andy Murray will finally break through with a four set win over Andy Roddick.
“And in the women’s tournament, Kim Clijsters will beat Sam Stosur in three, now
there’s a ratings winner.”
Like many people in sports, Sandy has taken a circuitous road to the top of his
profession.
He spent his childhood on a sheep farm in South Australia before working in
Adelaide, Perth, Bendigo and overseas as he learned the media trade. He finally
settled in Melbourne, joining Seven as a presenter, sports analyst, host and
commentator. He currently presents sport for Seven News in Victoria on
weekdays.
Today, Sandy has an enviable reputation for being one of Australia’s most
knowledgeable and respected industry professionals. When he isn’t at the world’s
largest sporting events, he escapes back to his farm just outside Melbourne.
Sandy has vast experience at major sports events. He has been involved in
every Olympic Games since Moscow in 1980, most recently as one of Seven’s
hosts for the Beijing Olympics in August 2008. Sandy has also commentated on
more than 700 AFL games, countless Australian Open tennis tournaments, major
golf tournaments such as the Masters and PGA and other top events around the
world.
JIM COURIER
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Four-time Grand Slam champion Jim Courier’s name is synonymous with the
Australian Open and Melbourne Park. From his unique celebratory jump in the
Yarra River after winning his two titles and his always entertaining and
informative expert analysis for Channel 7.
“The memories I have from my time playing in the AO as well as now the years of
working with Channel 7 all blend together to make a wonderful mixture of
experiences in Melbourne. Coming to Melbourne is such a fantastic way to start
each year. It does get my year ‘off on the good foot’ as we say,” explains Jim.
Fans and viewers can again look forward to Jim’s brash and bold after-match
player interviews.
“I hope I can surprise the viewers and players with some new and different postmatch questions that can create some waves. That’s always a big challenge and
a highlight for me.”
On the court, Jim believes Nadal going for his fourth major in a row makes the
men’s event extra special this year.
“It’s been a long time since that’s happened in the men’s game so there’s extra
motivation for him and I would also think extra motivation for Roger to try to
prevent it. Those are the favorites as usual.”
On the women’s side Jim sees health as a big factor with Serena Williams now
out of the tournament.
“The Belgians Clijsters and Henin could be contenders. Wozniacki is No. 1 in the
world, but I wouldn’t put her in the favorite position just yet.”
Jim won 23 career titles, including two Australian Opens (1992, 1993) and two
French Opens (1991, 1992). He was also the runner-up at the US Open (1991),
the French Open (1993) and Wimbledon (1993) and spent a total of 58 weeks as
the top-ranked player in the world, having first ascended there aged 21 in 1992.
Jim began his television career in the US in 2001 as an analyst during TNT and
CNN/Sports Illustrated’s coverage of Wimbledon. He also served as an analyst
for NBC Sports’ coverage of the 2004 Athens Olympics and has been a member
of the Channel 7 commentary team at the Australian Open since 2005.
HENRI LECONTE
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
After a stunning debut in the Australian Open commentary box last year as a
special guest, Leconte returns in 2011 to entertain audiences with his flair and
energy.
Leconte turned orthodox commentary on its head last year as he helped
audiences live the big moments in the match between France's Jo-Wilfried
Tsonga and Spain's Nicolas Almagro.
Asked what viewers can expect from him in 2011, Henri says with tongue in
cheek:
“You will see my friend. You never know with me. Of course I will be professional
as always.”
Clearly Australia holds a special place in Henri’s heart and he even seems to be
practising the local lingo.
“I love coming to Australia. I feel like home mate. The contact with all you guys is
just great, the atmosphere I love it. Thanks to you all.
“I have a lot of good memories in Australia. One of them is when I play the finale
in Sydney against Kelly Everden. At that time I had to win to qualify for the
Masters in New York and I did. During that match the ground keeper’s dog came
on court and took one ball from the net after I missed my first serve. I was
running him all over the court.”
When it comes to picking the 2011 Australian Open winners Henri says:
“I really think that Rafael Nadal is going to do the best he can to win the Open,
because he will be the one to make for the first time to win all four Grand Chelem
after Rod Laver. Of course not on the same year, but that will be a great
achievement.
“Roger and Rafael for me are both the best players in a world. With different
game and personality. I have a lot of respect for them. Great Champions on court
and outside.”
HENRI LECONTE (continued)
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Henri believes the women’s tournament is very open.
“Everybody has a chance to win the open at the moment. Kim Clijsters really has
the potential and the power to win. What she did winning back to back US Opens
is a great effort (like Pat Rafter my friend) and the Masters in Doha. We have
also Wozniacki who has a great potential to do it there too.
“I am also a great fan of Samantha Stosur I really love the way she is playing. If
she can go one more step to win Grand Chelem. She made a finale already in
Paris, why not in Melbourne at home. Come on Australia”
Leconte first came to the tennis world's attention as an outstanding junior player
who won the French Open junior title in 1981. He turned professional that year
and won his first career doubles title at Bologna, and his first top-level singles title
the following year, 1982, in Stockholm. Leconte played in the Davis Cup final for
the first time in 1982, when France was defeated 4–1 by the United States.
The peak of his career came in the mid to late 1980s when in 1986 he reached
two Grand Slam singles semi-finals at the French Open and Wimbledon, and
attained his career-high singles ranking of World No. 5. In 1988, Leconte reached
the men's singles final at the French Open, going down to two-time champion
Mats Wilander in straight sets 7–5, 6–2, 6–1.
Leconte retired from the professional tour in 1996, having won a total of nine
career singles titles and ten doubles titles.
In 2005 he participated in La Ferme Célébrités season 2, a game of reality TV. In
2007, his son Maxime also participated in a game of reality TV, Secret Story, the
French version of Big Brother.
TODD WOODBRIDGE
HOST
- MEDIBANK INTERNATIONAL
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
- MEDIBANK INTERNATIONAL
- BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
Todd is fast earning a reputation as a forthright commentator. 2011 is his sixth
year as part of Seven’s on-air team for the summer of tennis and he thinks it’s
going to be especially interesting.
Todd believes the rivalry between Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal will hit its
peak in 2011.
“These two have still dominated the men's game although Djokovic and Murray
have stood out in their efforts to break the game up.
“However Paul Annacone the former coach of Pete Sampras has started to make
inroads with Federer’s game and the noticeable aggression in the ATP tour
championship final sends a sound message that Federer is back on top of his
game and in my mind favorite for another Open title.”
On the women’s side, Todd says Kim Clijsters is far and away the best women's
player in the world, with her power and movement always being her strength.
“Since returning to the game after motherhood and the loss of her father to
cancer, she has matured and the confidence in her own ability is unstoppable.
“It is the first time at the AO that we can really say that Sam Stosur is a
contender, when she is on she can beat anyone in the world and what a party if
she could make the breakthrough at home.”
Todd started playing doubles with Mark Woodforde in 1990. Together, “The
Woodies” won all the Grand Slams as well as the Olympic Games gold medal in
Atlanta in 1996 and the silver medal at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. When they
won the French Open in 2000, the Woodies broke the record of 57 career
doubles titles held by Peter Fleming and John McEnroe and Bob Hewitt and Frew
McMillan. All up, the pair won 61 career doubles titles, making them the most
successful doubles team in men’s tennis history.
ROGER RASHEED
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
- BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
Roger’s impressively varied career so far means he has seen the best of world
tennis from all angles, especially when it comes to the Australian Open.
“As the first tournament of the year and the first Grand Slam there’s a lot of
mystique about it as there’s no real form to go on, as a lot of players have had
breaks or played in different exhibitions,” says Roger.
Examining the men’s draw Roger concurs with most on the two standouts, but
sees other players challenging.
“Clearly Roger and Raffa have been the two dominant forces in Grand Slams
over the last few years. Then there’s a group of guys who are capable of going
into the second week including the player I coach Gael Monfils, as well as
Murray, Djokovic and Soderling who has now played in two French Open finals.
“The women’s is interesting because normally I would say Serena because she’s
been so dominant. Now I’d have to go with Kim Clijsters as my number one
choice, but if Sam Stosur can get herself into the second weekend and get the
Aussie crowd behind her on Rod Laver Arena she’d be my second pick.”
“It’s our home Grand Slam and I remember coaching Lleyton at the Australian
Open in 2005 and just the enormity of it made it special.”
As a player, Roger was 16 when he became the youngest player to qualify for the
men’s singles in his home Grand Slam. It took 10 years for a player to take this
mantle, a teenager by the name Lleyton Hewitt, who Roger would go on to
coach. Under Roger, Lleyton rose from world No.19 to No.2, and played in two
Grand Slam finals, including the memorable epic performances that led to a
brave loss in the final of the 2005 Australian Open against Marat Safin. Roger
also coached the Australian Davis Cup team in 2006.
In addition to his coaching roles, Roger became a voice of authority on radio and
TV, first hosting a sports program on Adelaide radio station FIVEaa and covering
Wimbledon for BBC Radio. Now he is an integral part of Seven’s commentary
team.
And as the current coach of French former world No.1 junior Monfils, Roger splits
his time between Adelaide and Paris.
NICOLE BRADTKE
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
As a veteran on the Australian women’s tennis scene, Nicole is always effusive
about the tennis stories that come out of the Australian Open.
“As the first Grand Slam of the year and the heat, you always get an unknown
player who bursts on to the scene as a new star on the horizon at the Aussie
Open”, says Nicole.
She is hoping for some local success in this year’s tournament.
“I can see Kim Clijsters meeting our own Sam Stosur in the women’s final. Sam
will be well prepared, having played lead-up tournaments in Brisbane and
Sydney, while many of the other women will be playing in Hong Kong and may
be under prepared and find it difficult to adjust to our weather,”
After successfully predicting Roger Federer to win last year’s men’s title, Nicole
says Rafael Nadal will beat Andy Murray in this year’s final.
Nicole hit her first ball at the age of five and started playing professionally at 15.
She won three singles and nine doubles titles with career highlights including a
semi-final appearance at the 1988 French Open and a bronze medal with Rachel
McQuillan at the 1992 Olympics. She also won two mixed-doubles Grand Slams
with Mark Woodforde – the 1992 US Open and 1993 Australian Open.
Bradtke reached the top 30 in early 1989, before making further fourth rounds at
the 1989 Australian Open and the 1990 French Open and winning her first title at
home in Brisbane in 1992.
She won her second tour title in Kuala Lumpur in 1993 and reached the fourth
round of the Australian Open. She also earned her biggest career victory during
that year, beating World No. 1 Steffi Graf in a Fed Cup tie. Bradtke later helped
Australia to reach the final, where they lost to the Spanish team.
Nicole represented Australia in the Federation Cup for eight years from ‘88 to ‘95,
when she took over as coach. Since retiring, Nicole has coached some of
Australia’s most promising female players, including Alicia Molik and Sam Stosur.
KERRYN PRATT
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
- MEDIBANK INTERNATIONAL
The Australian Open is special to Kerryn as the international tennis family gets
together on our home soil with the excitement of the start of a new season.
“There’s just that feeling of anticipation, wondering who will step up in the new
year and play well, what changes there will be and who will make the big
improvements,” says Kerryn.
“One of my favourite moments as a commentator is Justine Henin’s first victory
over Lindsay Davenport in the 2003 fourth round. I called it with John McEnroe
who doesn’t call many womens’ matches, but obviously opted for this one as he
thought Lindsay would win quickly and he wanted to get to a Kostya Tszyu fight.
“It was one of the longest matches you could get, and Justine surprised Lindsay
(and John) winning an epic 9-7 in the third. Mac missed the boxing, but didn’t
mind as he’d witnessed and called a great match, one of the most significant in
Justine’s career.”
Kerryn says the womens’ field is wide open, with several players capable of
stepping up and challenging for the title, especially with Serena’s absence.
“Kim Clijsters will be keen and ready to improve on last year’s debacle here
against Petrova. Sam Stosur has all the ingredients for a maiden Grand Slam
win, Justine Henin returns from a long injury break and factor in a resurgent Ana
Ivanovic.
“I’m going with Kim Clijsters, who has the experience and the confidence to win,
with Stosur my other favourite, as she’s ready to take the next step in her journey
to the top of the game. The conditions should suit her perfectly, but the main
danger is the weight of expectation at her home slam. I also like Henin, Ivanovic
and Azarenka to be around at finals time.”
Kerryn is an accomplished former Australian tennis player. A leading junior
player, she went on to make the last 16 in the Australian Open singles, was a
semi-finalist in the Australian Open doubles and was a finalist in the Queensland
Open singles and won the Australian Hardcourt doubles.
She has since spent 17 years as a TV sports journalist, producer and tennis
commentator for Grand Slams and other major events. She’s also been a
courtside TV host and interviewer at the Masters Cup tennis and commentated
tennis, badminton and softball for Seven at the Athens and Beijing Olympics.
JOHN FITZGERALD
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
- AAMI KOOYONG CLASSIC
- BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
This will be John’s 15th year providing expert commentary for Channel 7’s
summer of tennis. His memories of the Australian Open stretch back to Kooyong
where he won a doubles title in 1982.
“It’s our home-grown Slam and it keeps getting bigger and better every year. It
truly is a world-class event in anyone’s language,”
John favours Nadal to take the title in 2011.
“I like him over a long five set match, but I am the world’s biggest Roger Federer
fan. These are the two best players going around by a fair way.
“When you look at the next group of players, Murray hasn’t won a major yet, but
could win three or four once he breaks through and Djokovic has only won one.
It’ll just depend if Roger can hang on long enough,” says John.
Clijsters is John’s tip for the women’s title.
“She hasn’t won outside the US yet but it’s a similar surface, so she’ll be near
favourite with Serana out of the tournament, but not a short-priced favourite. And
Wozniacki hasn’t broken through yet,”
As a player, his greatest career highlights came during the 11 years he
represented Australia in the Davis Cup. During this time he well and truly made
his mark on Australian tennis and was an integral part of the team. He played
three finals and played a major role in defeating Sweden in both the 1983 and
1986 finals at Kooyong.
John also held the No.1 ranking in Australia, represented his country in two
Olympics (Seoul and Barcelona), won six ATP Tour singles titles, 30 ATP Tour
doubles titles (including seven Grand Slam titles) and received the Order of
Australia Medal in 1993 for services to tennis.
In 2001, John became only the fourth Australian Davis Cup captain in the past 60
years. He’s so far taken the team to two finals.
ALLAN STONE
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
- MEDIBANK INTERNATIONAL
- AAMI CLASSIC
Former Australian Open doubles champion Allan Stone has been commentating
tennis on Channel 7 for more than 30 years and has attended 50 out of the last
51 Australian Opens as a player or commentator.
When asked to find a winner for the men’s 2011 Australian Open, Allan finds it
hard to look past Nadal, Federer and Djokovic.
“I nominate Nadal to win as he’s the world No. 1 and the mentally strongest
player on tour.”
Looking at the women’s side of the draw, Allan is hoping the home-grown girl can
put on a top performance for the Australian crowd.
“Clijsters, Stosur and Wozniacki will all be in the mix to win the women’s title, but
it will be Stosur to win. She’s still improving and much more consistent, she’ll
benefit from better preparation here in Australia leading up to the Open and will
get huge crowd support.”
A skilled recreational tennis player throughout his school days, Allan decided to
take the game seriously at university and after two years of a University Of
Melbourne commerce degree, he hit the international circuit.
During his 16 years touring the world, Allan notched up 11 doubles titles –
including the 1968 and 1977 Australian Open – represented Australia in four
Davis Cup campaigns and reached both the doubles and mixed doubles at
Wimbledon in 1975.
As he neared the end of his playing career, Allan was invited to be a guest
commentator by Channel 7. After his retirement, he became a permanent
member of the network’s team and has commentated at most major tennis
events.
As well as his involvement in Seven’s tennis coverage, Allan has been Head
Tennis Coach at the Victorian Institute of Sport (1996–2000), coach at the
National Training Centre in Melbourne Park, Vice President of the Australian
Davis Cup Foundation and a selector for the Australian Davis Cup and Olympic
teams.
ALICIA MOLIK
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Outside her playing duties in 2011, Alicia looks forward to joining Channel 7’s
coverage and revelling in the Australian Open atmosphere.
“Personally I love staying up to 2am to watch the finish of a gruelling match. I’ll
practice in the morning, play in the afternoon, and then watch some more all
evening, even I am addicted to the coverage,” says Alicia.
“The Aussie Open is special to me because it is in my own backyard. Many
family members and friends travel down or up for it, it’s the complete festival. The
perfect night out is sitting in Rod Laver Arena taking in all the action.”
On the court Alicia predicts a Federer and Stosur double.
“I think The Fed will win the mens’. Sam Stosur is capable and has the game to
hold the womens’ trophy. Only fit players win the Australian Open particularly
during our testing summer, and there are no two better examples.”
Alicia finds it hard to split three favourite memories from the Asia/Pacific Grand
Slam.
“My favourite memory of the Australian Open was Jim Courier taking a dive in the
Yarra River. Prince William watched Casey Dellacqua’s match last year so that
was pretty special. Personally, I’ll never forget beating Venus Williams in a Friday
night match.”
Alicia has reached a career high singles rank of world No. 8 and also won a
bronze medal for Australia at the 2004 Athens Olympics beating then world No. 3
Anastasia Myskina of Russia in straight sets 6-3 6-4.
Molik also reached a career high doubles ranking of No. 6, and won two grand
slam doubles titles, at the Australian Open in 2005 with partner Svetlana
Kuznetsova. and the French Open in 2007. She retired from the sport in
September 2008, however, announced a comeback in 2009.
She has also won the Zurich Open, a Tier I tournament, defeating Maria
Sharapova in the final.
SAM SMITH
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
- MEDIBANK INTERNATIONAL
- BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
Great Britain’s Sam Smith has turned an impressive career as a player into an
outstanding one as a broadcaster.
A former No. 1 British women’s singles player, Sam has been a member of the
Eurosport, Sky Sports, BBC Radio and BBC TV tennis commentary teams.
In 2011, she joins the Channel Seven summer of tennis team for the third time at
the Brisbane, Medibank International and Australian Open tournaments.
The Australian Open has fond memories for Sam:
“The Australian Open is personally special as I went to Australia for the first time
as a 15 year old in 1988 to play juniors and nearly qualified for the Australian
Open. It was the first year the AO was held at Melbourne Park and it was the
best trip I'd ever been a part of to that date and it made me want to try to become
a pro player.”
When it comes to commentary Sam has the following philosophy:
“The most important thought I always have in the front of my mind when
commentating is that the tennis on the court is more important than what's
happening in the commentary box. To that end I'll try to keep the commentary
entertaining, interesting and informative, if possible, and not spoil the viewers’
enjoyment of the match.”
On the court Sam backs fellow Brit Andy Murray, believing that if he can play as
well as last year, he's ready to win a Slam. While on the women’s side Sam says
Stosur, Wozniacki and Zvonareva will all be in the mix, but picks Clijsters as the
winner if she’s fit and healthy.
In her playing days just some of her achievements included reaching the fourth
round at Wimbledon in 1998 where she picked up an ankle injury that meant two
operations and four months in plaster. She won the ITF tournaments at
Nottingham in 1995 (singles and doubles) and Frinton-on-Sea in 2000. She
represented Great Britain in the Federation Cup and European Cup in 1991 and
1996–1999. She was unbeaten in the five singles matches in the 1997
Federation Cup.
RENNAE STUBBS
COMMENTATOR
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
- MEDIBANK INTERNATIONAL
- BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL
Rennae Stubbs has won several Grand Slam doubles titles and represented
Australia at three successive Olympic Games, but holds the Australian Open
dear after her triumphant year in 2000.
“Obviously for me when I won my first grand slam doubles title and then two days
later won the mixed doubles title in front of my family and friends. It was an
unforgettable two weeks.
“It’s a relaxed atmosphere, the crowd support is terrific and it’s home.”
When asked about who will be in the mix to win the women’s title in 2011,
Rennae offers this:
“I have to put Kim Clijsters at the top of the list. With no Serena in the draw, Kim
is the favorite. She will have crowd support and after last year, she will be looking
to redeem herself.
“As for fan support, Sam Stosur is very dangerous too and I believe if the court is
a little slower, Sam is a true chance. Look for Wozniaki too. She will be hungry
after 2010 for her first slam and the Australian Open might be the one.”
Rennae concurs with most pundits that Federer and Nadal are the two to beat
but says:
“I would throw in a Murray as an outsider, but I can't see one of the two big boys
not being there at the end of the two weeks.”
She has recorded more double triumphs than any other Australian woman—59
from 1992 to the conclusion of the 2007 WTA Tour—enjoying success with 11
different partners. She also won two mixed doubles Grand Slam titles with male
partners. In 2001, Stubbs won the season-ending WTA Championships with
regular partner Lisa Raymond and the pair were named ITF World Champions.
NEIL KEARNEY
REPORTER
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
A champion spinner of truly outstanding yarns for Seven at the Olympics,
Commonwealth Games and almost every other sporting event Australians hold
dear, it’s only fitting Neil Kearney reports at the Grand Slam of Asia/Pacific.
“It's the high point of Melbourne's summer, a friendly time for families and
visitors, and - on a sporting level - it's fascinating to follow the knockout
elimination process that gets more and more dramatic as the field reduces by half
every second day until - finally - there are just two players still standing,” says
Neil.
Neil recalls his favourite memories of covering the Open seeing players come to
the fore during the tournament and captivate the crowds.
“In successive years, we saw Marcos Baghdatis and Fernando Gonzalez come
from the pack to make the finals, and similarly with Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. The Open
really throbs with excitement when these emerging players capture the public's
imagination,” says Neil.
Neil’s humour chuckles through when asked for his winner predictions.
“I think the mens’ winner will be Roger Federer; maybe one last Aussie Open. I
think the womens’ winner will be Venus Williams. In Serena's absence, Venus
will be trying to please mum.”
Neil’s TV career began in 1984 when he joined Willesee as a specialist reporter.
He later featured prominently on A Current Affair and went on to produce and
present a high-rating series called Kearney’s Characters. He also produced
award-winning documentaries on events and personalities as diverse as The
Kentucky Derby horse race and the late Ayrton Senna.
Tennis fans can once again look forward to his unique reporting style during
Seven’s coverage of the Australian Open.
MICHAEL FELGATE
REPORTER
- AUSTRALIAN OPEN
HOST
- AAMI CLASSIC
Michael will again be at Kooyong to be part of the AAMI Classic as the best
players in the world tune up for the Australian Open.
“I can’t wait to be among the stars of the tennis world and am particularly looking
forward to seeing how Lleyton Hewitt prepares for his tilt at home glory.
“If he can get some good quality match practice at Kooyong, it augurs well for his
performance at the Open.”
Michael will also be out and about among all the fans and entertainment at
Melbourne Park during the Asia/Pacific Grand Slam.
“There’s always plenty of fun to be had at the Open. People from all walks of life
get there to revel in the holiday-like atmosphere and that makes for fun stories.”
Michael first started at Seven as a sport reporter and presenter in 2004 after
working at Sky Channel and overseas and has covered all sports in the news
room including AFL, tennis, racing, and the Olympics.
Michael has dominated the horse racing media awards since joining Seven. In
2005 and 2006 he received the Melbourne Racing Club award for Best News
Reporting over the Caulfield Cup Carnival and in the same years also received
the Best Cox Plate story award from the Moonee Valley Racing Club.
In 2006, Michael also won the overall Media Award for outstanding coverage of
the Cox Plate Carnival. In 2007, Michael achieved a "clean sweep" in the media
awards, winning the Best News Reporting award for the Caulfield Cup Carnival
and Cox Plate, as well as the Best News Story award on the Victoria Derby.
PETER DONEGAN
COMMENTATOR
- AAMI CLASSIC
Peter Donegan is one of Australia’s most respected sports presenters and
commentators.
Peter has covered the full spectrum of world sport, including five Olympic Games,
two Commonwealth Games, AFL Grand Finals, the prestigious Stawell Gift and
major golf and tennis tournaments both at home and abroad.
With all that rich sports broadcasting experience, he acknowledges the special
place Kooyong holds in Australian sport and tennis.
“Kooyong is the former home of the Australian Open and it still holds plenty of
mystique about it with all of the great Davis Cup matches that have been played
there as well.”
Peter believes the AAMI Classic plays an important part of the Australian
summer of tennis.
“It is a true opportunity for the best players in the world to tune up for the
Australian Open and acclimatise to the weather and playing conditions.”
Further information:
Greg Smith
Seven Melbourne
0438 777 164