our history
Margaret Court Arena (MCA) was opened at Melbourne Park, along with Rod Laver Arena, in 1988.
It formed part of a new National Tennis Centre complex purpose-built to host the Australian Open.
MCA is known as a versatile venue, adapting to host a range of sporting events (including tennis, netball and basketball), live music and entertainment.
It is renowned for its excellent acoustics and atmosphere, as well as its retractable roof.
1985
The Victorian Government sets aside part of the existing Flinders and Yarra Parks for the site of a new National Tennis Centre to host the Australian Open.
1988
Stage One of the $94 million project is completed, featuring a 14,280-seat centre court with a 700-tonne MCA opens as ‘Show Court One’ in time for the 1988 Australian Open, as part of a new purpose-built National Tennis Centre.
2003
The venue is renamed Margaret Court Arena on 12 January 2003, on the eve of the Australian Open, as a tribute to Australia’s most successful female tennis player.
2010
The state government announces Margaret Court Arena will undergo significant improvement works at part of the $972 million Melbourne Park Redevelopment, with capacity increased from 6,000 to 7,500, and the installation of a state-of-the-art retractable roof.
2017
Tash Sultana sells a record 7,359 tickets in December, drawing MCA’s largest crowd to date.
NOW
Margaret Court Arena is renowned as one of the most versatile and flexible venues for live events and entertainment, transforming its footprint to host a diverse range of events, from the Australian Open to the Australian Ballet.
To read more on the history of the precinct, click here.
Melbourne & Olympic Parks acknowledges the Wurundjeri People of the Kulin Nation as Traditional Owners of the land on which Rod Laver Arena is located and recognise their ongoing connection to this land, and rich culture. We pay respects to their Elders past, present and future.