Organisers of the Australian Open have made a bold play to bring one of the world's most famous couples to Melbourne, issuing a direct invitation to pop superstar Taylor Swift and her fiancé, NFL star Travis Kelce.
An Open Invitation for a Power Couple
A spokesperson for Tennis Australia confirmed the move, highlighting that Kelce's schedule has opened up after his team, the Kansas City Chiefs, did not make the NFL playoffs. "With Travis Kelce not making the playoffs with the Kansas City Chiefs, we have extended an open invite to him and Taylor Swift to come to the Australian Open," the spokesperson stated. They expressed hope that the pair would accept, noting that other NFL players like Joe Burrow and Micah Parsons attended last year and "loved the experience."
A Glittering Array of Confirmed Stars
While Swift and Kelce's attendance remains unconfirmed, organisers have locked in a host of other celebrities for the tournament's opening day on 18 January. The prestigious Set In Style dinner will feature Australian personalities including swimmer Ariarne Titmus, media figures Carrie Bickmore and Kerri-Anne Kennerley, and former fashion blogger Nadia Bartel.
Further star power is anticipated for the finals, with actor Eric Bana and duo The Veronicas tipped to attend the men's and women's finals respectively. Invitations have also reportedly been sent to Hollywood A-listers Tom Hanks, Gerard Butler, and Hayley Atwell. Actor Liam Hemsworth is expected to return, possibly alongside designer Ralph Lauren.
From US Open Singalong to Australian Courtside
The invitation follows Swift and Kelce's memorable appearance at the US Open in September, where they were captured on camera enthusiastically singing along to 'I Believe in a Thing Called Love' during the final. The moment sparked a viral reaction online, dividing fans between those who found it endearing and others who criticised the couple for a perceived lack of decorum at the prestigious event.
This is not the only high-profile Australian invitation extended to the couple recently. Wildlife conservationist Robert Irwin has publicly offered Australia Zoo as a "perfect" wedding venue for Swift and Kelce, urging them to "hit me up" to arrange a date.
Whether the global icons will swap the American football field for the Melbourne Park courtside this January is yet to be seen, but Tennis Australia is clearly rolling out the green carpet in hope.
