The Australian Open is adding another piece of technology to its growing tennis ecosystem. Shanghai-based sports technology company Pongbot has been named the Official Ball Machine of the Australian Open, while also becoming the Official Ball Machine Supplier of the National Tennis Academy.
The multi-year partnership will begin with the Australian Open 2027.
According to the organizers, the partnership represents the first time a “smart robot ball machine” has been used at a Grand Slam tournament. Rather than simply supplying equipment, Pongbot will also be involved in player development and fan engagement during the Australian Open.
We have tested their ball machines recently, check out our review of the Pongbot Pace S Pro.
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Pongbot Comes to Melbourne Park
Under the new agreement, its technology will support high-performance training within Australia’s player-development pathway, including the National Tennis Academy.
The partnership will also give fans an opportunity to interact with the technology through “come-and-try” sessions at the Australian Open, allowing visitors to experience Pongbot’s AI-powered training challenges for themselves.
For Pongbot, the Australian Open partnership also provides a global platform for its tennis technology. The Pace S Pro model is positioned as its professional AI tennis ball machine, offering features such as movement tracking, match-style challenges and customizable drills.
AO Pace S Pro
Alongside the partnership, Pongbot is introducing the AO Pace S Pro, an Australian Open-inspired version of its Pace S Pro ball machine.
The AO version is currently listed by Pongbot as “Coming Soon,” with the company positioning it around the Australian Open partnership and the idea of bringing Grand Slam-inspired training to players outside Melbourne Park.
Tennis Australia’s Chief Commercial Officer, Cedric Cornelis, said the partnership fits with the Australian Open’s focus on innovation and player development.
“We’re excited to work together to bring these innovations to the Australian Open and inspire the next generation of players at our National Tennis Academy.”
There is surely a hype in new types of tennis ball machines at the moment, and it’s exciting to see what comes next. If you’re looking for one yourself, make sure you read our guide for some of the best ball machines.
