Going Full Circle at the AO'26

For most Kiwi tennis fans, the Australian Open is a chance to watch the world’s best from afar. But for Kevin, who has spent decades shaping New Zealand tennis from the ground up, this year’s trip to the Australian Open was something far more than just a tennis holiday, it was a celebration of decades invested in the sport. Its outcome a reminder that relationships built in our regions ripple out to the world stage, and a testament to how one person’s passion can shape a community, and sometimes, a champion.

At the Australian Open ’26 Kevin and his family immersed themselves in the heart of Melbourne Park. The first four days were spent courtside at qualifying and practice sessions; the kind of access that lets you stand metres away as the world’s top 20 women and men sharpening their skills. Among a week full of highlights, two moments stood out, moments that connected Kevins past and present within his remarkable tennis journey.

Supporting our own, Lulu Sun

Kevin watched Lulu Sun warm up on match day, quietly observing her footwork, timing, and intensity. After her session, he managed to grab a quick photo, a snapshot of New Zealand talent on the rise with someone who has dedicated years to helping Kiwi players climb similar paths.

A full‑circle moment with a Grand Slam champion

The second highlight was one of those stories that could only happen to someone who has lived and breathed tennis for decades. Kevin spotted Su‑wei Hsieh practicing, a talented doubles player with nine Grand Slam titles to her name. When her session finished, he approached her and her coach, Cara Black, another legend of the sport, to ask, “Do you remember where you won your very first ITF singles title?” Without hesitation, Su‑wei smiled, Wellington.

What she didn’t know was that standing in front of her was the tournament director from that very event. Kevin recounted the morning he arrived at the Renouf Tennis Centre, Wellington, at 6:45am for the day’s play, only to hear balls already being struck. Su‑wei, just 15 at the time, had climbed over the gates with her father, racquets and balls in hand, and had been practicing for nearly an hour.

That early‑morning determination became the foundation of a career that would take her to a world No. 23 singles ranking and global dominance in doubles (9 grand slam doubles/mixed doubles titles) achieved with her signature, unorthodox two‑handed forehand and backhand.

Kevin has spent his life championing tennis in New Zealand, CEO of Wellington Tennis (1993-2007) chairing boards, running tennis centres, directing tournaments, and helping the next generation of Kiwi players find their way through the ranks. These days Kevin is a proud member of Kaiapoi Tennis Club in North Canterbury, and a self-confessed tennis nut who lives by the motto “ A day without tennis probably won’t kill me… but why risk it?”