Pongbot Becomes Australian Open's Official AI Ball Machine
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Melbourne – September 28, 2026 -- The Australian Open has named Chinese sports technology firm Pongbot its Official Ball Machine under a new multi-year agreement covering the 2027 tournament (AO27).
Deal extends to Tennis Australia's National Tennis Academy
The partnership also designates Pongbot as Official Ball Machine Supplier of the National Tennis Academy, embedding its AI-powered equipment into Tennis Australia's player development pathway.
AI Coach technology targets training consistency and performance data
Pongbot's product line, including its AI Coach system, will be deployed for high-performance training, consistent ball repetition, data collection and performance analysis at the tournament and academy.
Pongbot CEO Haibo Zhang said the partnership centers on using AI Coach to change how players train and convert sustained effort into measurable progress.