Australian Open 2018 champion Caroline Wozniacki will make a special appearance at AO 2025 as a headline guest at the ninth annual AO Inspirational Series event on Thursday 23 January, hosted by Nine’s Alicia Loxley.
Wozniacki is a celebrated athlete, philanthropist, and advocate for women's empowerment. She will share insights from her illustrious career, her public battle with rheumatoid arthritis, her journey into motherhood and life on and off the court.
"I’m thrilled to return to Melbourne and be part of the AO Inspirational Series," Wozniacki said.
"As the tournament where I enjoyed my greatest success, the Australian Open holds a special place in my heart and I always love coming back here. I’m looking forward to sharing my experiences and connecting with others who are passionate about inspiring change and celebrating women."
Sophie Delezio will tell her powerful story of resilience, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to triumph over adversity.
Delezio became a household name at just two years-of-age, when a car crashed into her childcare centre and she suffered third degree burns to 85 percent of her body. Just three years later she was again hit by a car and suffered more horrific injuries. Sophie has refused to allow those injuries to define her and she lives her life to the full.
“I’m so excited to attend this year’s AO Inspirational Series event and be part of the Australian Open,” Delezio said. "It’s such a privilege to share my story in an environment that celebrates resilience, determination and community – such strong values the resonate throughout the game of tennis.
“I’m eager to discuss all the lessons I’ve learned throughout my journey, particularly how we can all embrace life’s challenges and transform them into opportunities for growth, connection and unity. Moments like these remind me of the power of our shared stories to inspire change and make a meaningful difference in the world.
"It’s been an incredible year of tennis and I can’t wait to celebrate it at this amazing event.”
Australian tennis legend and trailblazer Evonne Goolagong Cawley will be in attendance, celebrating the 50th anniversary of her second Australian Open crown in 1975, along with Judy Dalton, a member of the Original Nine who alongside Billie Jean King fought for equality and to professionalise the women’s tour in the 1970s.
International model, entrepreneur, television presenter and creator Tyra Banks will attend the event and is looking forward to watching the women's semi-finals at Rod Laver Arena.
The brainchild of Craig Tiley, a passionate advocate for equality, the AO Inspirational Series has become a cornerstone of the Australian Open, showcasing diverse voices from the worlds of sport, arts, business, and philanthropy.
Past speakers have included icons of the sport Billie Jean King and Kim Clijsters, former Prime Minister Julia Gillard, former Australian Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick, fashion and publishing maven Anna Wintour – introduced by acclaimed Australian producer Baz Luhrmann, actor and producer Rebel Wilson, renowned Hollywood film and TV producer Bruna Papandrea and supermodel Elle MacPherson.
“The AO Inspirational Series is a vital platform to celebrate equality and amplify the voices of remarkable women who continue to shape our world," Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said.
"It’s an honour to welcome Caroline Wozniacki back to the AO—her journey embodies resilience, empowerment, and excellence both on and off the court.
“Sophie Delezio’s story of triumph over adversity is a reminder of the extraordinary strength of the human spirit, and I’m eager for audiences to be inspired by her courage and wisdom.
“This year, we also celebrate the 50th anniversary of Evonne Goolagong Cawley’s second Australian Open title—a milestone that reflects her enduring legacy in tennis and her role in advancing equality within the sport.
“With such a diverse and inspiring lineup, this promises to be another unforgettable chapter in the AO Inspirational Series.”
The AO Inspirational Series will set the stage for an action-packed night of women’s tennis, with the women’s semifinals starting at Rod Laver Arena from 7.00pm.
They will be preceded by a performance from Australian star of stage and screen, Annie Jones singing “Love is a Battlefield.”