Unlike the 90's during the Ford Australia open at Flinders park, there's not many hardcore tennis fans today.

I remember going the 1st year kei nishikori played, year after he won delray beach? Saw him on a practice courts hitting beautifully and moving gracefully, i'll freely admit i absolutely fawned over him, the place was packed with Japanese/asians taking photos/videos/waiting for autographs.

The aussie girls in the social group i was hanging with had virtually zero interest in anything tennis, nor were they receptive to increasing their knowledge. At best they might have seen a poster and recognised a "big name" player.

It was a real shock to me. A 35c day and i was ready to sweet it out on the outdoor backcourts watching those great "hidden" match ups.

And their main interest was about "being seen" socially and taking facebook selfies. They ended up plunking their fat asses down against the inner stadium ring with fans constantly blowing in their faces..for a few hours before leaving.

For the younger people today the Australion Open is just a giant media social event and with the concert prices charged today, can we really blame them.. a ground pass used to cost $15-20 and give access to MCA.. remember could climb up and sit watching on the walls, when all seats were taken, great as kid.