When did Rod Laver Arena open for the 1988 Australian Open?
Rod Laver Arena opened its doors on the 11th of January 1988 for the 1988 Australian Open. Construction began in 1985 and cost AU$94 million to complete by 1987.
Questions about Rod Laver Arena
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who suggested the retractable roof for Rod Laver Arena?
John Cain, the premier of Victoria around 1980, suggested the idea for such a roof. Rod Laver Arena became the first tennis venue in the world with a retractable roof installed.
What year did Rod Laver Arena host Australia's Davis Cup victories?
The arena hosted the semi-final and Final of Australia's famous Davis Cup victories in 2003. Australia recorded their 28th Davis Cup title at this location that same year.
How many people attended the first basketball game at Rod Laver Arena?
Over 15,000 people attended the first basketball game at Rod Laver Arena in 1991 when the Australian Boomers played host to a touring All-Star team headlined by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
When did Rod Laver Arena change its court surface from Rebound Ace to Plexicushion?
From 1988 until 2007, the surface of the court was Rebound Ace which was coloured green and played slowly. In 2008, the surface changed to Plexicushion and turned blue.