Five-time major champion and career grand slam winner Rory McIlroy headlines the opening for Men’s Australia, and the tournament will be held in Melbourne for the next two years.
The Royal Melbourne Sandbert in Melbourne will host a tournament from December 4th to 7th, with nearby Kingston Heath becoming home to its 2026 opening.
McIlroy’s return to Australia came behind historic victory at the 2025 Masters Tournament and completed his career grand slam.
The 35-year-old, 35, appeared at the Australian Open, when McIlroy defended the Stonehaven Cup in 2013 and eventually became the champion in 2013 against Adam Scott.
“I’m proud to be committed to the Australian open for the next two years, especially with being played on the world-class Melbourne Sandbelt, which is where I’ve always wanted to play professionally,” McIlroy said in a statement.
“The success of the Australian Open is important for the global game and we are confident that it will continue to flourish this year, especially with performances being performed at one of the world’s great sports cities and at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club and Kingston Heath Golf Club, two of the world’s most amazing golf courses in the next two years.”
Golf Australia CEO James Sutherland said the Northern Irish appearance will help boost tournament status.
“The best Rory McIlroy playing our game, playing in the world-famous Melbourne Sandbelt, is an appetizing proposition for golf fans,” Sutherland said.
“We are committed to increasing our national championship status, and this announcement is an important step in that direction.”
The Australian Open is separate from previous combined events, with dates and venues for the Women’s Australia Open and all Australian Ability Championships confirmed at a later date.
“We are confident that the revised format with individual male events, women and all-ability events will provide each event a platform to showcase the incredible talent of golf,” Sutherland said.
