On the 50th anniversary of Evonne Goolagong Cawley’s first Australian Open triumph, the Aussie great was recognized at Rod Laver Arena.
Melbourne, Australia, 25 January 2024 | tennis.com.au 16 1985 Fifty years after lifting the iconic Australian Open trophy for the first time, Evonne Goolagong Cawley is being honored for the incredible contribution she’s made to her sport, her nation and her heritage.
In a special ceremony at Rod Laver Arena prior to the women’s semifinals this evening, it was announced that from 2025 the Australian Open’s annual celebration of First Nations culture during week one will be known as Evonne Goolagong Cawley Day.
At Australian Open 2025, the Australian Tennis Foundation will host the Because of Evonne breakfast, followed by a ceremonial walk to Melbourne Park, with all funds raised going towards Goolagong Cawley’s life’s work – improving the lives of Indigenous kids through education and sport.
To celebrate this milestone anniversary, Tennis Australia has donated $100,000 to deliver Indigenous programs and continue Evonne’s outstanding lifelong work.
“We are delighted to honor Evonne here at the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena, 50 years after her first Australian Open win and before two blockbuster women’s semifinals,” Tennis Australia’s CEO Craig Tiley said.
“Evonne exemplifies all that is good and great in our sport, both on and off the court. She’s a shining example of humility and grace, and the dedication she’s shown over so many years to helping others is an inspiration to us all.
“We look forward to building on Evonne’s legacy and continuing her extraordinary work.”
Find your way to play: Visit play.tennis.com.au to get out on court and have some fun!
LATEST
Ebden determined to claim men’s doubles title at Australian Open 2024
Jones finishes runner-up in girls’ singles at Australian Open 2024
Emilie Chen crowned champion at Australian Open Asia-Pacific Elite Trophy
SIMILAR
Ebden determined to claim men’s doubles title at Australian Open 2024
Jones finishes runner-up in girls’ singles at Australian Open 2024
Emilie Chen crowned champion at Australian Open Asia-Pacific Elite Trophy
Search
Play
Play More
COVID-19
Leagues
For Parents
Tournaments
Coaching
Inclusion & Diversity
Become a Pro
Learn
Policies
What is tennis?
How to Play
Rules & Scoring
Ways to play
Benefits
Health & Fitness
Courts & Surfaces
News and Events
TV Guide
News & Features
Players & Rankings
Pro Tournaments
Events
Subscribe
About TA
Australian Tennis Foundation
Servi
