What to wear to the Australian Open, the New Balance way
Here’s how to style New Balance’s 2026 men's AO collection for on the court, in the stands, and everywhere in between
THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN is one of those rare sporting events where performance and style genuinely collide. There’s the tennis, obviously – but there’s also the heat, the long days, the walking, the sitting, the standing, and the unplanned hours spent wandering Melbourne Park. Whatever you’re wearing needs to work a little harder than usual.
That’s where New Balance’s 2026 Australian Open Collection comes in. Now in its third year as the tournament’s Official Performance Apparel and Footwear partner, the brand has leaned into what men actually want to wear during the AO: functional pieces that handle summer conditions, feel good on the body, and still look right once you’re off the court.
The overall approach is refreshingly straightforward. Sporty, wearable, unfussy – and designed to be lived in.
Below, Esquire narrows it down to the key pieces worth knowing.
For match days and movement
If you’re clocking up serious steps around Melbourne Park, the AO26 Achieve Short and Achieve Pant are easy wins. Lightweight, breathable and built for movement, they’re the kind of pieces that are easy to chuck on without looking overdone. Pair them with the Open Tournament Novelty Top for something that keeps airflow front of mind, without clinging or feeling too “gym”.
For a classic tennis moment
The AO26 Striped Premium Polo taps into tennis tradition without feeling stuck in the past. Clean lines, subtle striping and fast-drying NB DRY fabric make it an easy choice whether you’re watching from the stands or heading straight out afterwards. Style it with the Open Achieve or Novelty Short and finish with the Panel Hat or trainers for an effortless, classic look.
For early mornings and night sessions
Once the sun drops, the AO26 Athletics French Terry Hoodie earns its place. Cut with a relaxed, premium silhouette and made from heavyweight French terry, it feels substantial without being stifling – ideal for night sessions and cooler starts. Layer it over an Athletics Graphic T-Shirt and pair with pants for an easy, elevated look that works well beyond the tournament.
For everyday AO dressing
New Balance’s graphic tees – including the Aussie, Baseline and C’mon Aussie designs – avoid novelty merch territory. Relaxed, well-cut and rooted in tennis culture, they’re easy, wearable pieces with genuine re-wear value.
The collection drops today, Monday 12 January 2026 at New Balance’s retail activation at Melbourne Park, online, and in select stores globally — just in time to dress for Australia’s biggest sporting (and style) moment of the summer.
Shop the full collection at newbalance.com.au.
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