Home » SPORTS TOURISM » Perth Set to Shine in 2026: Why the United Cup is Australia’s Biggest Tennis Event Yet!
Published on
December 30, 2025
In early January 2026, Perth, the capital of Western Australia (WA), is ready to showcase its stunning coastline and vibrant culture to a global audience as it hosts the prestigious United Cup. The event, which will take place from January 2 to 7, 2026, promises to be a highlight of the summer calendar, featuring some of the world’s top tennis players. This year, the tournament will feature countries such as the USA, Italy, Great Britain, Japan, and many more, with each team looking to claim the coveted trophy.
A Premier Tennis Event in Perth
The United Cup 2026 will see the world’s elite athletes competing on Perth’s courts, drawing large crowds and media attention from all corners of the world. The event will be held at the RAC Arena, one of Perth’s leading venues for sporting events. As the city plays host to teams from various countries, including Argentina, France, Greece, Spain, and Switzerland, tennis fans are in for a week of thrilling competition.
Among the stars participating is Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion and former world No.1, who will represent Japan. Other notable players include Coco Gauff, the world No. 3 from the USA, and Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece, a fan favorite. These world-class athletes will not only compete on the court but will also help spotlight Perth’s beauty, drawing attention to the city’s coastline and rich cultural offerings.
Showcasing Perth’s Iconic Sights
The USA team, including stars Coco Gauff and Taylor Fritz, have already begun exploring Western Australia’s natural beauty. During their visit, the duo took to Instagram to share their experience at Cottesloe Beach, one of Perth’s most iconic beaches. With a combined following of over three million people on Instagram, Gauff and Fritz are helping to elevate Perth’s image on a global stage. The images shared by these top tennis players have created excitement for the event, enticing fans worldwide to tune in and experience Perth’s pristine coastline and vibrant atmosphere.
A Boost to Tourism and Local Economy
The United Cup is more than just a sports event for Perth; it forms a crucial part of the Cook Government’s strategy to boost economic growth through tourism. Tourism WA, in partnership with the United Cup, aims to attract visitors from across Australia and around the globe, generating significant tourism dollars for the local economy. This is a critical part of the government’s efforts to diversify the economy of Western Australia, making tourism a key pillar of future growth.
As part of the event, a fan zone will be activated outside RAC Arena, creating a lively atmosphere in the heart of the Perth CBD. The fan zone will include a variety of activities for people of all ages, from interactive tennis games and face painting to roving entertainment and a pop-up bar experience. These offerings are designed to enhance the experience of the fans attending the event and engage the wider community in the excitement surrounding the tournament.
Economic Diversification and Job Creation
According to Tourism Minister Reece Whitby, the United Cup is part of a broader strategy to create an always-on, year-round events calendar for Western Australia. This calendar aims to not only bring in out-of-state visitors but also create jobs for local workers in the hospitality, tourism, and event sectors. By attracting high-profile events like the United Cup, Western Australia is positioning itself as a leading destination for international tourists and sports enthusiasts alike.
Minister Whitby also emphasized the importance of global exposure for Perth and Western Australia. The social media presence of players like Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka, who are sharing their Perth experiences with millions of followers, is seen as an invaluable marketing tool. The widespread coverage of the United Cup is expected to showcase Perth to international tourists, further strengthening the city’s appeal as a premier destination for travelers.
Building Excitement for the Summer of Events
The United Cup 2026 is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting summer for Western Australia. In addition to the tennis tournament, the state will host several other high-profile events, including the Perth Sail Grand Prix, Rugby SVNS, and AFL Origin. These events are expected to draw thousands of visitors, contributing significantly to the local economy and helping to establish Perth as a premier events destination.
Minister Whitby noted that the United Cup is a prime example of how major events can drive tourism and support the state’s economic diversification strategy. By attracting events like these, Western Australia is strengthening its position in the competitive global tourism market. The hope is that these events will not only benefit the local economy but also create lasting jobs for the people of Western Australia.
The Importance of Hosting World-Class Events
Hosting events like the United Cup is not just about attracting international visitors; it’s also about fostering a sense of community pride and enhancing local infrastructure. With thousands of fans expected to attend the United Cup, Perth will continue to invest in its infrastructure, ensuring that the city remains a vibrant and attractive place for both residents and visitors.
The United Cup marks the beginning of a significant year for Western Australia, with a packed schedule of events on the horizon. The Cook Government is determined to continue building on the momentum created by these high-profile tournaments, using them as a platform to showcase the state’s offerings to a global audience.
Conclusion
As Perth prepares for the 2026 United Cup, excitement is building for what promises to be one of the biggest events of the year. The presence of top international tennis stars, the city’s stunning coastline, and a host of activities for fans all contribute to making this event a highlight for both local residents and visitors alike. Through its strategic focus on major events, Western Australia is positioning itself for a prosperous future, with tourism, local businesses, and job creation all benefiting from the global exposure that comes with hosting the United Cup.