Melbourne, Australia ― The 2025 tennis season began in the final days of 2024, with players descending on Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong to kick off the new year ahead of its first major, the Australian Open. Yonex stars are among those looking to shine best and brightest at Melbourne Park, with the Grand Slam set to begin on Sunday, 12 January.
Who can make their mark? We explore the biggest Yonex storylines to watch.
Ruud embarks on a new adventure with the ultimate partner
Twelve months ago, Casper Ruud (NOR) dropped out of the top 10 for the first time in over two years, but used two title runs in Barcelona and Geneva - and three more runner-up finishes - to climb back to world No.6 at year's end.
The three-time major finallist begins 2025 on a new adventure. He's clad in Yonex wear as always, though these threads are layered in symbolism, reflecting a theme of “Journey.” Geometric patterns on his kit represent the past, present, and future. His racquet, the new EZONE, offers greater power and responsiveness, buoying the former world No. 2 to strive for new heights and - he hopes - surpass his previous best.
Shelton, Pegula aim to recapture Melbourne magic
Ben Shelton (USA) and Jessica Pegula (USA) take on the new season equipped with the latest EZONE racquets, as well. For both of them, Melbourne marks a pivotal place - having had respective breakthroughs here in recent years.
In 2023, the then 20-year-old college student Shelton made his first overseas trip - ever. After struggling in two lead-in events, Shelton made an inspired run to the quarter-finals. It marked the moment the world witnessed the rise of the big-serving left-hander. Now, two years later, a global star, the entertainer is ready to deliver even more excitement for his fans as he eyes his first-ever major final.
For Pegula, her first Grand Slam quarterfinal came at the 2021 Australian Open - at age 27. She'd later admit that said moment was a turning point in her career, as it gave her true belief in herself. Now 30, the "late bloomer" advanced to the final of the US Open in September, making significant strides toward her dream of winning a major. The Australian Open, with its special memories and Pegula's noted strength on hard courts, could just be the perfect place to achieve that dream.
Rybakina back to winning ways
Having played just a handful of matches in the second half of 2024, Elena Rybakina (KAZ) began her new season at the mixed-team United Cup event. As the ace of Kazakhstan, she played a key role, excelling in both singles and mixed doubles - winning five of six matches.
Having recently added Goran Ivanisevic to her coaching team, the two Wimbledon former champions are eyeing more hardware in 2025.
Rising wheelchair champion aims to add to greatness
Still just 18 years old, Tokito Oda (JPN) is entering this year’s Australian Open with renewed determination.
Oda, the world No.1, is rewriting the history of his sport established by his hero and compatriot Shingo Kunieda (JPN). The young champion has openly declared his desire to break every record. He now turns his focus to defending his Australian Open title, having already captured four major singles titles in total.
