By Chris Oddo | Monday, July 21, 2014
Eat your heart out Grand Slams, the Australian Open has three roofs now.
Photo Source: Norm Oorloff/ Sydney Morning Herald
The Australian Open was the first Grand Slam to boast two retractable roofs over its showcourts—now it is the first to boast three.
More: US Open Unveils Plans for Roof over Arthur Ashe Stadium
Over the weekend Tennis Australia held a press conference to christen the opening of the new roof over Margaret Court Arena, the tournament’s third-largest showcourt.
According to officials, the roof will open and close in approximately five minutes, and it is believed to be the fastest-closing stadium roof in the world.
“The redevelopment and stadium upgrades mean we could technically complete all Australian Open matches even with a fortnight of solid rain,” tournament director Craig Tiley said. “We are very proud to lead the way in world tennis as the only Grand Slam with three retractable roof venues, and MCA will feature what we believe to be the world’s fastest moving stadium roof, which will open or close in just five minutes.”
The stadium has also added 2,500 additional seats as well as other amenities, but it will no longer be available to grounds pass holders who do not pay an extra premium.
“We had a taste of MCA’s intimate atmosphere this year and with an extra 2,500 seats next year it promises to be electric,” Tiley said. “We want to ensure as many fans as possible have access to the MCA matches, and by ticketing the venue patrons can plan their Australian Open experience well in advance.”
After the jump, you can view some photos and tweets from the christening, as well as a YouTube video of the roof in action: