New Australian Open boss Andrew Abdo throws shade at critics: ‘I’m not an outsider’

Launch event marred by former NRL CEO calling world No 1 ‘Jacob’ Sinner, while announcing the grand slam will add 700 seats in 2027 Launch event marred by former NRL CEO calling world No 1 ‘Jacob’ Sinner Grand slam to add 700 seats amid focus on comfort as well as growth New Tennis Australia chief executive Andrew Abdo pledged more shade and more seats for outer courts at the Australian Open in 2027, as the former rugby league administrator believes his background as a tennis outsider will fuel the tournament’s “relentless pursuit of growth”.

The first tennis grand slam of 2027 will include the largest temporary grandstand constructed at Melbourne Park, adding 700 seats, and there will be “triple the amount of shade” for fans, as Abdo plans to cap day pass sales to better manage visitor comfort. He has appointed himself tournament director – replicating the dual role held