Article by LICENSE GLOBAL 

Australian Open Unveils 2026 Apparel Collections with Global Brand Partnerships

The Australian Open has revealed its 2026 apparel collections, marking a complete redesign from the previous year's offerings. The tournament's new retail strategy centers on what organizers call "Playful Premium," a design approach that elevates basic pieces through premium finishes and thoughtful details. 

The AO26 collections are structured around three distinct categories: Fan Wear, Loungewear and Courtside. Each segment targets different consumer preferences while maintaining the tournament's energetic brand identity through bold graphics and elevated styling. 

Three-Tiered Collection Strategy 

The Fan Wear collection emphasizes gender-neutral silhouettes and graphic expressions, drawing inspiration from Melbourne and the Australian summer. These pieces are designed as accessible yet collectible items that fans can wear throughout the year. 

Loungewear focuses on refined everyday essentials with clean, minimal silhouettes that transition from tournament grounds to daily life. The collection targets consumers seeking comfort combined with contemporary styling. 

The Courtside collection features high-quality materials and refined finishes. This line will be released through limited, exclusive drops and targets consumers seeking standout products that embody the tournament's prestige. 

Global Brand Partnerships 

The Australian Open has partnered with several global and local brands for 2026. Ralph Lauren continues as the official lifestyle partner, introducing a new towel range that includes player towels inspired by Australian lifestyle elements. The collection features crests referencing ocean waves and summer themes, including a beach towel with the Ralph Lauren Bear dressed in the tournament's ball kids uniform. 

New Balance serves as the official performance apparel and footwear partner, delivering a collection that balances fashion with retro influences and Melbourne-inspired graphics. The range is designed for both players and fans. 

Waterdrop introduces the Official Australian Open 2026 Player Bottle, supporting the tournament's sustainability goals. The reusable stainless-steel bottles are available in 1L, 600ml and 400ml formats and feature gradient colorways with Melbourne-inspired design elements. 

New Era contributes sports headwear including bucket hats, A-frames, 9FORTY unstructured caps and visors. Each piece features the AO logo with raised embroidery and New Era's signature flag. 

Specialty Collaborations 

The tournament has also partnered with several specialty brands. Mr. Men Little Miss offers a collection of apparel and accessories featuring characters such as Little Miss Sunshine and Mr. Happy Slam, including hoodies, t-shirts, caps and tote bags. 

Australian early childhood brand Mizzie The Kangaroo has created a limited-edition range of educational toys designed to inspire interest in sports from an early age. The collection focuses on intergenerational connection and encouraging passion for sports through sensory play. 

Local brand Footies contributes premium socks featuring high-quality materials, detailed embroidery techniques and on-trend styles designed for both sports fans and lifestyle consumers. 

The Australian Open 2026 runs Jan. 12 - Feb. 1 at Melbourne Park. The tournament's retail collections will be available through official channels during the event. 

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