Honoring a Legend: Evonne Goolagong Cawley Celebrated at Australian Open 2024

A Milestone Celebration

Fifty Years of Triumph:
Fifty years after Evonne Goolagong Cawley’s historic victory at the Australian Open, the tennis legend is being celebrated for her remarkable contributions to the sport, her nation, and her heritage. In a special ceremony at Rod Laver Arena, just before the women’s semifinals, it was announced that the Australian Open’s annual celebration of First Nations culture during the first week will be officially known as Evonne Goolagong Cawley Day, starting from 2025.

A Legacy Continues

Because of Evonne Breakfast:
In an effort to continue Goolagong Cawley’s lifelong work of improving the lives of Indigenous children through education and sports, the Australian Tennis Foundation will host the “Because of Evonne” breakfast at the Australian Open 2025. The event will be followed by a ceremonial walk to Melbourne Park, with all funds raised contributing to this noble cause.

Tennis Australia’s Generosity:
To mark this significant milestone, Tennis Australia has made a generous donation of $100,000 to support Indigenous programs, furthering Evonne’s outstanding legacy. The donation highlights the organization’s commitment to honoring Goolagong Cawley’s impact on and off the court.

A Testimony of Inspiration

Tennis Australia CEO’s Tribute:
Craig Tiley, CEO of Tennis Australia, expressed his delight in honoring Evonne Goolagong Cawley during the Australian Open at Rod Laver Arena. He emphasized her exemplary qualities both as a player and a humanitarian. Goolagong Cawley’s dedication, humility, and grace serve as an inspiration to everyone involved in the sport. Tennis Australia is eager to build on her legacy and continue the remarkable work she initiated.

Building on Legacy:
The tribute to Goolagong Cawley at Rod Laver Arena, 50 years after her first Australian Open victory, is a testament to her enduring impact. The renaming of the annual celebration of First Nations culture underscores her influence and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

Special Messages from Fellow Players

Ash Barty’s Heartfelt Message:
As the tennis world celebrates Evonne Goolagong Cawley’s 50th anniversary of winning her first Australian Open title, fellow Australian player and friend, Ash Barty, shared a heartfelt message. Barty, a Grand Slam champion herself, described Goolagong Cawley as a friend, mentor, icon, and an absolute legend. She expressed admiration for Goolagong Cawley’s incredible personality and acknowledged the significance of renaming a special day in her honor.

A Cherished Relationship:
Barty emphasized her deep appreciation for the 72-year-old tennis star’s entire career and celebrated the renaming of Evonne Goolagong Cawley Day. She expressed gratitude for their cherished relationship, stating that she will always be Goolagong Cawley’s biggest fan.

Five Quick Hits from Melbourne Park

1. Celebration on Centre Court:
Before the women’s semifinals, Tennis Australia made a special presentation to Evonne Goolagong Cawley, marking the 50th anniversary of her first Australian Open title. The celebration included an announcement by Todd Woodbridge that the annual celebration of First Nations culture will be named Evonne Goolagong Cawley Day.

2. Generous Donation by Tennis Australia:
Tennis Australia announced a significant contribution of $100,000 to support Indigenous programs, continuing Goolagong Cawley’s impactful work. The donation reflects Tennis Australia’s commitment to fostering positive change through sports and education.

3. Jelena Dokic and Aryna Sabalenka’s Gesture:
On day 12 at Melbourne Park, Jelena Dokic and Aryna Sabalenka used towels to contribute to a charitable cause. The players engaged in a meaningful gesture, showcasing the tennis community’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond the court.

4. Because of Evonne Breakfast:
The Australian Tennis Foundation’s “Because of Evonne” breakfast at the Australian Open 2025 aims to raise funds for Goolagong Cawley’s ongoing efforts to improve the lives of Indigenous children. This initiative reflects the tennis community’s dedication to social responsibility and community development.

5. Evonne Goolagong Cawley’s Legacy:
The celebration of Evonne Goolagong Cawley’s legacy at the Australian Open is a testament to her enduring influence on the sport and her commitment to creating positive change. As the tennis community joins together to honor her, the renaming of the annual cultural celebration signifies a lasting tribute to a tennis legend and humanitarian.

In conclusion, the Australian Open 2024 becomes a significant milestone in the history of tennis, marked by the celebration of Evonne Goolagong Cawley’s achievements and contributions to the sport and Indigenous communities. The renaming of a cultural celebration in her honor and the generous donation by Tennis Australia underscore the enduring impact of a tennis icon whose legacy continues to inspire generations.