Sports equipment manufacturer Wilson has extended its partnership with the Tennis Australia governing body, through which it serves as the official ball of the Australian Open grand slam tournament.
Wilson’s new two-year deal will run through to 2018, with the expanded agreement to encompass both Tennis Australia and all member associations.
Wilson will continue to serve as the official ball of the Australian Open and the Australian Open Series, which takes place in the weeks leading up to the grand slam.
It will also serve as the official ball of the Tennis Hot Shots youth programme, and its products will feature ‘AO’ branding from January 1.
In addition, Tennis Australia and Wilson will launch the National Club Ball Program, a grassroots initiative that will seek to provide opportunities for affiliated clubs and coaches.
More than 50,000 Wilson tennis balls are expected to be used at the 2017 Australian Open, which takes place from January 16-29 in Melbourne.