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.
Co-branded ball machine to combine Australian Open and Pongbot identities
Pongbot plans to release an Australian Open co-branded ball machine, featuring joint branding on the machine body and ball hopper, merging tournament identity with its training technology.
Tennis Australia frames deal as innovation push for fan and athlete engagement
Tennis Australia Chief Commercial Officer Cedric Cornelis said Pongbot's AI-driven technology brings a new approach to training and fan engagement, supporting the development of players at the National Tennis Academy.
The agreement links Pongbot's international growth strategy to one of tennis's four Grand Slam events, connecting its robotics and AI training tools directly with players, coaches and fans through the Australian Open platform.