MELBOURNE — For two weeks, Melbourne Park is a cauldron of intense competition, where the world’s best tennis players battle for glory under the Australian sun. But what happens on the precious, rare day off between grueling matches? The answer is as varied as the players themselves, offering a fascinating glimpse into the personalities behind the powerful serves and elegant backhands. From coffee rituals to high-stakes card games and even a round of golf with a living legend, a day off at the Australian Open is a study in contrast, recovery, and unexpected camaraderie.
The Art of Switching Off: Recovery is King
For most players, a day off is not a day of adventure, but a sacred extension of their training regimen. The primary goal is physical and mental recovery. “The most important thing is to get your body right,” says world No. 1 Novak Djokovic, a master of meticulous preparation. This philosophy translates into a strict routine focused on sleep, nutrition, and light activity. Players can be found:
- Sleeping in: Catching up on rest is non-negotiable after matches that can stretch past midnight.
- Hydration and nutrition: Working closely with their teams to refuel with specific meals and electrolyte drinks.
- Light movement: A gentle swim, a walk along the Yarra River, or a casual bike ride to keep the body loose without expending precious energy.
For many, this is also a chance for a mental reset. “I try to completely disconnect from tennis,” admits former champion Stan Wawrinka. “Maybe watch a movie, read a book, or just have a quiet coffee. You have to give your mind a break from the pressure.” This mental downtime is crucial for maintaining focus throughout the fortnight-long tournament.
Coffee Culture and Culinary Exploration
Melbourne’s renowned coffee scene is a major draw for players and their teams. The hunt for the perfect flat white or espresso becomes a delightful off-day mission. South Melbourne Market, Degraves Street, and the laneways around Federation Square are popular haunts. “Melbourne has the best coffee in the world,” raves American player Tommy Paul, a known coffee aficionado.
Food is another avenue for exploration and comfort. While many stick to the carefully curated menus at their hotels or the player restaurant, others venture out for a taste of home or a new experience. Lygon Street’s Italian fare is a perennial favorite, while Greek restaurants in Oakleigh attract players like Stefanos Tsitsipas. For others, a simple, hearty burger or a bowl of pasta provides the perfect comfort food before returning to the strict dietary demands of competition.
Games of Chance and Skill: Cards and Golf
When the rackets are put away, competitive instincts often find a new outlet. Card games are a tour staple, with games of poker, 'President' (also known as 'Asshole'), and other favorites filling hotel suites and player lounges. “The card games can get pretty intense,” laughs Canadian veteran Milos Raonic. “It’s a fun way to bond and trash talk without the physical toll.”
The Ultimate Day Off: A Round with Roger
For a select few, however, a day off can become the stuff of legend. The story of playing golf with Roger Federer during the Australian Open is whispered in locker rooms with a mix of awe and envy. Even in retirement, Federer remains a revered figure, and an invitation from him is the ultimate privilege. Several Next Gen players, including Italy’s Jannik Sinner, have been spotted enjoying a round with the Swiss maestro at Melbourne’s prestigious Royal Melbourne or Kingston Heath golf clubs.
For these players, it’s less about the golf score and more about the experience. “You’re trying to focus on your match the next day, but you’re also getting life advice from Roger Federer,” one player confided. “It’s surreal. He talks about handling pressure, the travel, everything. It’s the best possible way to spend an afternoon off.”
Family Time and Normalcy
For players traveling with young families, a day off is a precious opportunity to be a parent, not just a player. A trip to the Melbourne Zoo, a day at St Kilda Beach, or simply playing in the park becomes the highlight. “It grounds you,” says mother-of-two Elina Svitolina. “Seeing your child smile and forget about tennis for a few hours is the best recovery there is.”
This pursuit of normalcy is a common thread. Whether it’s Andy Murray playing video games with his team, Iga Świątek catching up on her favorite TV series, or a group of players going to see a movie at the Hoyts at Melbourne Central, these mundane activities provide a vital psychological counterbalance to the high-stakes environment of the tournament.
The Contrast: From Relaxation Back to Battle
The beauty of the day off lies in its stark contrast to the days of competition. The quiet coffee, the laughter during a card game, the peaceful walk—all serve to recharge batteries for the next onslaught. As evening falls, the mindset inevitably begins to shift. Players return to their hotels, perhaps have a light hit to feel the ball, and start mentally preparing for their next opponent.
The day off, in all its forms, is a crucial but often overlooked component of Grand Slam success. It’s a reminder that these athletes are not just sporting machines, but individuals with diverse interests and needs. “Everyone finds their own way to reset,” reflects Djokovic. “But the goal is the same: to come back stronger, fresher, and ready to fight.”
So, the next time you see a player deliver a breathtaking performance on Rod Laver Arena, remember it might have been preceded by a day of serene golf with a legend, a competitive card game, or simply the perfect cup of Melbourne coffee. In the high-pressure world of professional tennis, how you spend your day off can be just as important as how you spend your day on.