Brief
New Australian Open boss Andrew Abdo slips on Jannik Sinner’s name at launch
Abdo’s slip‑up came as he outlined upcoming rivalries and reaffirmed support for five‑set men’s matches.
By Felo News Desk · Published
At the Australian Open 2027 launch on 8 October 2026, new Tennis Australia chief executive Andrew Abdo mistakenly referred to Jannik Sinner as “Jacob” while discussing future rivalries, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.
What happened
Speaking at Rod Laver Arena, Abdo said he was excited to host “the world’s best current players” and highlighted potential match‑ups such as “Carlos Alcaraz against Jacob Sinner” and “Elena Rybakina against Aryna Sabalenka.” He later clarified to media that he knew the player was Jannik Sinner. The slip occurred shortly after Abdo, who replaced Craig Tiley in August, took the podium for his first Australian Open press event.
What the reports add
The article notes that former NRL executive Abdo is viewed as an outsider to tennis, contrasting his background with Tiley’s long‑term involvement. It also mentions that former doubles champion Todd Woodbridge joined Abdo on stage with Jelena Dokic and praised Abdo’s delivery despite the lack of an autocue.
What was said
Abdo told the AAP: “If you want to know what I’m really excited for; we are going to be hosting not only the world’s best current players, but I think some amazing emerging rivalries.” He later added, “Let me just say, I am a massive fan of the best of five, and it’s here to stay,” echoing Tennis Australia’s recent social‑media statement defending five‑set matches.
How it came about
Abdo’s launch follows his August appointment as CEO and tournament director, succeeding Craig Tiley. A month earlier he sparked headlines at the SportNXT conference by suggesting the best‑of‑five format might be reconsidered for the Australian Open, prompting Tennis Australia to reaffirm that five‑set men’s matches will remain. The slip underscores the heightened scrutiny on Abdo as he navigates a role that is more international than his previous positions.
Key facts
- Andrew Abdo mistakenly called Jannik Sinner “Jacob” during the Australian Open 2027 launch. (smh.com.au)
- Abdo said he is a “massive fan of the best of five” and that the format will stay. (smh.com.au)
- Abdo replaced Craig Tiley as Tennis Australia CEO in August 2026. (smh.com.au)
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “Australian Open 2027: Andrew Abdo’s Jannik Sinner gaffe at tournament launch”
