History

This boutique event, held annually at Kooyong, has become the preferred Australian Open preparation for eight of the world's top male players.

Since a date change to the week prior to the 'Open', names of current and past participants read like a "who's who" of tennis – Roger Federer, Andy Roddick, Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, Boris Becker, Stefan Edberg, Marat Safin, Patrick Rafter, Michael Chang, Michael Stich, Thomas Muster, Jim Courier, Goran Ivanisevic and so on. Roger Federer is the current title-holder.

Formerly known as the Colonial Classic and the Commonwealth Bank International, a new sponsor – Australia's leading car, home and compulsory third party personal insurer, AAMI – took over the naming rights sponsorship in 2006.

The Kooyong Classic is renowned for its high-level player participation and unique corporate entertainment opportunities. In 2008, all Courtside and Stadium Suites were sold and this situation is expected to be repeated in 2009 (January 14-17).

Melbourne's premier event caterer, Rowland Major Events, enhances the corporate experience by providing first-class service and menu selection.

Lunch is available daily either in the corporate marquee (situated on grasscourts close to the stadium) or served to the suites "hamper-style". Morning/afternoon teas, supplementary items and refreshments are also available during each of the four sessions:

Wednesday, 13th January: 11.00 am to approx. 6.30 pm
Thursday, 14th January: 11.00 am to approx. 6.00 pm
Friday, 15th January: 11.00 am to approx. 6.00 pm
Saturday, 16th January: 1.00 pm to approx. 5.00 pm

The Seven Network televises approx. 12 hours live coverage of the event and in 2008 IEC in Sports sold the international television rights to 17 countries.

Kooyong's Kooyong Classic plays an integral role in Australia's "summer of tennis".