6 February 2024 | Tennis Australia

In the bustling lead-up to the Australian Open, amid the anticipation and excitement of tennis fans worldwide, there’s another lesser-known yet equally thrilling event – the Australian Tennis Foundation (ATF) lottery.

This lottery offers participants a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and among the lucky winners this year were Mel and Dave Jones of Victoria, who walked away with the coveted top prize.

The allure of the ATF lottery lies in its promise of exclusive access and unforgettable moments at one of the world’s most prestigious tennis tournaments. For Mel and Dave, the excitement began with the simple purchase of a lottery ticket, a decision that soon led them to tennis paradise.

Their prize package was nothing short of extraordinary—a VIP experience fit for true tennis enthusiasts.

It included tickets to the men’s final, ensuring they could witness the pinnacle of tennis excellence firsthand. But the luxury didn’t end there. Mel and Dave were treated to a lavish stay at Le Meridian Melbourne, complete with private transfers to and from Melbourne Park, ensuring their comfort and convenience throughout their stay.

There was also a thoughtfully curated AO 2024 goodie bag filled with exclusive memorabilia and souvenirs to commemorate their experience.

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of their prize was the behind-the-scenes access they were granted. From a backstage tour of the Australian Open, including a stroll along the Walk of Champions, to the rare opportunity to step foot onto the iconic Rod Laver Arena court, Mel and Dave were given an insider’s view of the tournament like never before.

> LEARN: About the Australian Tennis Foundation

Adding to the excitement were the chance encounters with tennis legends. Mel and Dave were thrilled to have a hit and receive a tennis lesson from none other than the legendary Pat Cash. Under Cash’s expert guidance, they refined their skills and gained invaluable insights into the game—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that left them feeling inspired and exhilarated.

“What haven’t we done?!” remarked an awestruck Mel, highlighting the sheer breadth of experiences.

And in a lighthearted moment, she humorously noted, “best $20 I’ve ever spent!” referring to the modest price of their lottery ticket – a small investment that yielded extraordinary returns.

An equally thrilled Dave summed it up succinctly: “It’s an amazing experience,” he said, capturing the essence of their adventure – a whirlwind of excitement, luxury, and unforgettable moments that left a lasting impression.

But beyond the glitz and glamour, there’s a deeper significance to the ATF lottery. All proceeds from ticket sales go toward supporting disadvantaged children and young people across Australia, making every entry a contribution to a worthy cause.

As Mel and Dave’s story highlights, the ATF lottery isn’t just about luck—it’s about creating opportunities and making dreams a reality.

So as tickets for AO25 go on sale in October, tennis fans everywhere are encouraged to take a chance and be part of something truly special. Who knows? The next lucky winners could be you.

Find your way to play: Visit play.tennis.com.au to get out on court and have some fun!