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[title]Every summer, the world’s top sporting stars head Down Under to compete in tennis in Melbourne. This year’s tennis tournament is set to be a cracker. However, the tennis wouldn’t be possible without the contributions of thousands of unsung heroes playing their part behind the scenes.
Mastercard is shining a light on the top talents, both on and off the courts.
Meet Dylan Colaci – former ball kid
At 14, Dylan Colaci became an internet sensation after taking an impressive one-handed catch during the Rafael Nadal-Roger Federer match at the 2012 Australian tournament. The budding tennis star had always dreamed of following in his brother’s footsteps and becoming a ball kid, and after hours of training, secured a spot courtside at the men’s semi-final.
Colaci’s heroic mid-air catch elicited a thunderous roar from the audience, which scored him a personalised letter from the Grand Slam champion. He recalls, "The crowd's appreciation was overwhelming, and the realisation that I had just pulled off such a feat was priceless."
Meet Zvi Schweitzer – Tennis Ambassador and Disability Tennis Champion
Tennis champion and accessibility advocate, Zvi Schweitzer, has lived and breathed tennis since he was seven years old. Schweitzer’s made a name for himself over the past two decades, achieving an impressive three-time championship title at the Global Games – the pinnacle of sporting achievement for the disability community.
However, even more remarkable is Schweitzer’s passion and commitment as a Customer Experience Ambassador for the tennis, where he raises funds to support accessibility to tennis programs within the community. Schweitzer’s efforts have included selling more than 10,000 used match balls to enthusiastic fans, with funds received used to support community tennis programs.
Meet Tinika Pasinetti – Tournament DJ
Performing at the Australian Open was a full-circle moment for tennis prodigy, automation engineer and successful DJ Tinika Pasinetti. Growing up, she dreamed of playing at the prestigious event.
Despite her talents on the court, Pasinetti ended up following her creative pursuits and now works as an engineer by day and DJ by night. Pasinetti's passions collided when she was invited to perform on a grand stage at the tennis in front of thousands of fans.
"The interaction between players on court and the crowd, it's an energy exchange," Tinika reflects. "DJ-ing is the same - an energy exchange between you and the crowd. The feeling is priceless.
Priceless experiences in Melbourne for fans of Curtis Stone & Jim Courier
Embark on a culinary odyssey with an exclusive dining experience by Curtis Stone for Mastercard. Indulge in a 4-course masterpiece curated and prepared by 2-time Michelin star chef Curtis Stone, accompanied by a selection of premium wine pairings, all taking place in the stunning Alto Marquee set against the beautiful backdrop of the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. As the day unfolds, brace yourself for a surprise appearance from tennis legend Jim Courier, and be prepared to be entertained by a cook-off competition between Curtis Stone and Jim Courier, making this lunch more than a meal. It's an unforgettable encounter with the best of Melbourne's gastronomy. Exclusively for Mastercard cardholders.
