The Australian Open 2021 Commemorative Coin has been revealed by ANZ, featuring former professional tennis players and members of the Original Nine, Kerry Melville Reid MBE and Judy Tegart Dalton AM.
The Original Nine are a breakaway group that chose to form their own tennis tour on 23 September 1970 – today’s Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) - inspired by the huge gender pay gap that existed in tennis.
The commemorative coins will be tossed by more than 150 ANZ Tennis Hot Shot participants – also known as the Coin Crew - at the start of each main arena match at the Australian Open. Each limited edition coin will then be gifted to the kids to remind them of the once in a lifetime opportunity.
Judy Tegart Dalton AM said “It’s an honour to be featured on the 2021 ANZ Commemorative Coin. I’m thrilled that Kerry and I will inspire the next generation of young tennis players through our achievements and it is a privilege that we have been able to be involved in their special Australian Open moment.”
Kerry Melville Reid MBE said “I have fond memories from the many Australian Open tournaments. I am moved to be featured on the ANZ Commemorative Coin and be an advocate alongside Judy for the many amazing women in tennis.”
Commenting on the initiative, ANZ Managing Director Retail Banking Katherine Bray said “We are proud to once again support grassroots tennis through the ANZ Tennis Hot Shots program across Australia. We look forward to unveiling our 2021 ANZ Commemorative Coin and to welcoming our future tennis stars to the courts to celebrate their special coin toss moment with their favourite players.”
This year marks the fourth year celebrating the ANZ Commemorative Coin - with previous years featuring Dylan Alcott OAM, Rod Laver AC MBE and Evonne Goolagong Cawley AC MBE.
The ANZ Tennis Hot Shots program provides additional resources for clubs and schools, for children between three and 12 years of age, making tennis more accessible for everyone - encouraging those to get outside and enjoy tennis.
ANZ Tennis Hot Shots uses smaller courts, lighter racquets, lower nets and low compression balls making it suitable for children of all abilities.