Players on the men’s side are often prompted to speak on this disparity, and they have responded without exception that the tour would be welcoming to any gay player. While tennis has long been a space for trailblazing LGBTQ+ representation on the women’s tour - from Billie Jean King to hometown Australian hero Sam Stosur - on the ATP tour there are still no out gay professional men. “I’m delighted we can all come together as a community to celebrate together on this special day, which I have no doubt will become a highly anticipated part of the AO every year,” Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said in a statement.

In addition to the upcoming Glam Slam from January 28-30, the celebrations are Tennis Australia’s attempt to reach out and welcome its LGBTQ+ fans to the game.

Sunday night saw Rod Laver Arena lit up in rainbow colors, closing out an eventful first-ever Pride Day at the Australian Open.