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MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA, 17 January 2026 - Today, dreams came true for a special group of children and young people from across Australia as the Force for Good program, a joint initiative with Emirates and the Australian Tennis Foundation (ATF), culminated its first year. Twenty-five participants, alongside their guardian or friends, were flown to Melbourne for a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the heart of the Australian Open.
For many of these children, who might never have had the chance to pick up a racquet, the program has unlocked a new world of possibility. The day marked a significant milestone for the Emirates Force for Good program, a $2.25 million, five-year commitment from Emirates designed to inspire brighter futures for disadvantaged children through tennis.
Throughout its 2025 pilot year, the program has made a remarkable impact across the five Australian cities Emirates serves – Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.
In partnership with 53 local community partners, 44 programs and events were delivered, introducing over 2,000 children to the sport. The overarching program created over 10,500 hours of joy and more than 7,600 opportunities for participants to play, connect, and grow. To ensure a lasting legacy, over 715 racquets, nets, and balls were donated to children and community groups.
The 2025 program culminated today with these young participants experiencing the magic of the Australian Open, meeting tennis legends Casey Dellacqua and Pat Cash at the AO Ballpark presented by Emirates and soaking in the atmosphere of a sport they have come to love.
Dean Cleaver, Emirates Regional Sales Manager, spoke of the atmosphere and excitement of the day. "Today is a celebration of the impact this program continues to have on children's lives. We’re not just introducing them to a sport. We are providing a pathway to build confidence, improve their physical health, and boost their mental wellbeing. The 25 participants here today were chosen for their dedication and positive attitudes. Flying them to Melbourne embodies what our Force for Good initiative is all about – connecting communities and creating opportunities.”
The power of the Emirates Force for Good program was echoed by its participants, with 85% now feeling more positive about themselves and their future, and 76% feeling more confident to try new things.
Vicki Reid, Executive Director of the Australian Tennis Foundation, watched on as the children experienced the event. "This is the magic of sport in action. The program is designed to help participants build their confidence to try something new, find a place to belong, and experience the joy tennis can bring. To see these kids, who started this journey on their local community courts, now standing here at a Grand Slam is incredibly moving and speaks volumes about the power of creating opportunity.”
Australian tennis legend Casey Dellacqua, who spent time with the children, shared her excitement. "This is what it's all about. Looking at these kids, I see the same spark I had when I first picked up a racquet. To be part of their journey, has been an absolute honour. For many, this experience will be a defining moment, showing them that no dream is too big.”
The Force for Good program is a cornerstone of Emirates’ deep and long-standing support and investment in Australian sport and culture. The airline’s commitment to the nation for nearly three decades includes its iconic partnership being the Official Airline of the Australian Open.
Building on the momentum of its pilot year, the Emirates ‘Force for Good’ program will continue its five-year journey in 2026, with plans underway to deliver more tennis programs and impactful community events across Australia.
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