Aussie tennis great Alicia Molik is launching a new career as a TV news host.
The former world No. 8 is transitioning from her role as tennis commentator to be Channel 9’s weekend sport presenter in Perth during the prime time 6pm bulletin.
She is replacing Fremantle legend Matthew Pavlich, who was Nine’s premier sport presenter in the west before he finished up in October.
Pavlich was last year appointed chief executive of the Sydney Swans.
It was reported earlier this month Nine’s primary target for the role was Fremantle cult hero Nat Fyfe, who retired at the end of the 2025 AFL season.
The Herald Sun first reported Paddy Sweeney and Erin Harwood were also in line as possible replacements.
Fyfe has recently featured in some roles with Channel 7 and it appears Nine missed out on its dream replacement for Pavlich.
It makes Molik a surprise option to fill the role, despite her popularity as a media performer.
The former Australian Open quarter-finalist is particularly popular in Perth because of her role as an ambassador of the Hopman Cup — and bringing the world’s best players to begin their season’s in Perth.
The 2004 Olympics bronze medalist is also a two-time doubles grand slam champion.
She has emerged as a classy performer during her recent appearances as part of Nine’s tennis coverage.
Molik has told The Sydney Morning Herald: “Sport is woven into the DNA of this city, and I look forward to connecting with our viewers every weekend to share the triumphs and the biggest stories in the sporting world.
“Joining the 9News sport team is a natural fit. I’m thrilled that I’ll still be courtside covering the Australian Open and Wimbledon for the Nine Network – it’s truly the best of both worlds.”
Pavlich was the sport presenter for seven years after he joined the network following his retirement as a Dockers legend in 2016.