Billionaire Spectator: Bill Gates Adds Star Power to 2026 Australian Open
Melbourne, 31 January 2026 – Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has been a prominent figure in the celebrity crowd at Melbourne Park this week, adding a touch of billionaire glamour to the 2026 Australian Open. The tech magnate was spotted courtside during the women’s semi-finals and was a vocal supporter as Australian duo Olivia Gadecki and John Peers clinched a historic back-to-back mixed doubles title.
A Celebrity Cheering Squad
Gates, who arrived in Melbourne with his partner Paula Hurd, was seen enjoying the tennis alongside a host of other high-profile guests. Australian comedian Andy Lee was photographed beaming next to the billionaire, while former model and businesswoman Sarah Murdoch also attended, showcasing luxury accessories reportedly valued at over A$10,000. The celebrity presence extended to actor Liam Hemsworth, his girlfriend Gabriella Brooks, and even Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was seen courtside with his son.
Gates Backs Historic Aussie Victory
The billionaire’s support proved fortuitous for the local favourites. On Friday afternoon, buoyed by a parochial crowd that included Gates – a friend of John Peers – Olivia Gadecki and Peers defeated their opponents to claim the Australian Open mixed doubles crown for a second consecutive year. This victory broke a 37-year drought for back-to-back Australian winners in the event. Gates’ connection to Peers dates back to the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he cheered the Australian on to a gold medal alongside Matthew Ebden.
Key Facts & Figures: Australian Open 2026
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Historic Mixed Doubles Win | Olivia Gadecki & John Peers win consecutive AO titles, a feat not achieved in 37 years. |
| Celebrity Attendee | Bill Gates attended women’s semi-finals and mixed doubles final. |
| Other Notable Guests | Andy Lee, Sarah Murdoch, Liam Hemsworth, Anthony Albanese. |
| Men’s Singles Final | Novak Djokovic to face Carlos Alcaraz after both survived five-set semi-finals. |
| Local Doubles Hope | Jason Kubler and Marc Polmans advanced to the men’s doubles final. |
On-Court Drama Beyond the Stands
While celebrities watched on, the tournament delivered its signature drama. Carlos Alcaraz defeated Alexander Zverev in a gripping semi-final, setting up a championship decider against Novak Djokovic. In the women’s draw, Jessica Pegula ousted the 2025 champion Madison Keys. The event was not without controversy, however, as Tennis Australia faces accusations of “betrayal” from other Grand Slam organisers over its alleged support for a proposed unified tennis organisation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Bill Gates at the Australian Open?
Bill Gates attended as a spectator and is a known friend of Australian tennis player John Peers. He was seen supporting Peers and his partner Olivia Gadecki during their successful mixed doubles title defence.
What record did Gadecki and Peers break?
The Australian pair won the Australian Open mixed doubles title for the second year in a row, becoming the first team to achieve this feat in 37 years.
Who is playing in the 2026 Australian Open men’s final?
The men’s singles final will be contested between Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz, following their respective semi-final victories.