Five-time Grand Slam singles champion and the nation's oldest living Australian, Wimbledon and United States champion Frank Sedgman AO will feature on the official Australian Open 2027 match coin, recognising his extraordinary contribution to Australian tennis.
A trailblazer of the sport in Australia, Sedgman was the first Australian player to win the US Open – in 1951, then Wimbledon and the US Open again in 1952, ushering in an era of Australian dominance on the world stage. Across an extraordinary career the legendary ‘Sedge’ won 22 Grand Slam titles.
Of the 24 major trophies on offer in 1951 and 1952, Sedgman won 16, including a doubles Grand Slam in 1951 with countryman Ken McGregor.
As he celebrates his 99th birthday, Sedgman said he's "incredibly proud" to be the face of the Australian Open 2027 coin, which is tossed before every match throughout the Summer of Tennis and the Australian Open.
“To receive an honour like this is incredibly special,” Sedgman said. “I am very honoured and proud to be recognised in this way. Tennis has been a huge part of my life and given me a lifetime of memories, friendships and opportunities. I’ve always felt incredibly proud to represent Australia around the world.
“The Australian Open has certainly changed over the years, from the racquets and the surface, but before the match begins, the importance of winning the coin toss can really help a player, and that’s something that hasn’t changed. Having the coin carry such personal significance means a great deal to me and my whole family.
“I’m deeply honoured by this recognition and grateful to Tennis Australia for celebrating my contribution to tennis in this way. I hope it reminds every one of the sport’s rich history and that my success might motivate young players.”
A Member of the Order of Australia, an inductee into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the Australian Tennis Hall of Fame and the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, Sedgman also played a pivotal role in Australia's resurgence as a Davis Cup powerhouse.
After making his debut in 1949, he helped Australia win three consecutive Davis Cup titles from 1950 to 1952, compiling an outstanding record of 25 wins and just three losses, including an undefeated 9-0 doubles record.
Tennis Australia CEO Andrew Abdo said it was a privilege to recognise one of the giants of Australian sport.
“Frank Sedgman’s contribution to Australian tennis is extraordinary and extends far beyond the remarkable list of titles he won throughout his career,” Abdo said.
“He helped establish Australia as a powerhouse of world tennis and set standards of excellence, sportsmanship and humility that continue to inspire generations of players. As the first Australian player to turn professional, he paved the way for a golden era of tennis in Australia.
“As we celebrate Frank’s 99th birthday it is fitting that we honour him through one of the Australian Open’s most enduring traditions.
“Every match begins with the toss of a coin. Having Frank featured on the Australian Open 2027 coin ensures that his legacy will be part of every match played throughout the tournament and serves as a reminder of the champions who helped build our sport.”
Fellow Australian great and former Davis Cup Captain John Fitzgerald recently visited Frank to present the coin design for his approval.
“Frank is truly the father of the modern game of tennis in Australia,” John Fitzgerald said. “He has achieved more in tennis than most people could ever dream of, yet he remains one of the humblest and most gracious people you could meet.
“It was incredibly special to sit down with him, and when he saw the coin design for the first time there was a real sense of pride and appreciation. He reflected on the many people who had been part of his journey and what the sport has meant to him throughout his life.
“For those of us who have had the privilege of knowing Frank, this honour feels thoroughly deserved. He is one of the great figures in Australian tennis history, and it is wonderful to see him recognised in such a meaningful way.”
The AO 2027 coin has been designed and created by ABC Bullion, the Australian Open's Official Trophy and Precious Metals Partner. The official coin will be unveiled prior to AO 2027.