
05 Jan 2025
The Australian Open is synonymous with excellence, not only in tennis but also in artistry. For 2025, this celebrated tournament elevates its legacy with the unveiling of the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup and the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup, meticulously crafted by master silversmiths at W.J. Sanders using pure Australian silver refined by ABC Bullion.
These iconic trophies, created in Sydney by W.J. Sanders, represent the pinnacle of artisanal craftsmanship and national pride. As exact replicas of the perpetual trophies held by Tennis Australia, they will be awarded to the champions of the men’s and women’s singles finals at the Australian Open 2025. Alongside these prestigious accolades, the doubles, wheelchair, junior, and legends trophies, as well as runners-up trophies and commemorative plates for finals umpires, were also crafted with the same dedication to precision and tradition.
The silver used in these creations has a story of its own, mined ethically at Evolution Mining’s Cowal Gold Mine and refined to perfection by ABC Refinery. This transparent and responsible supply chain underscores Australia’s commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship. The intricate details of the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup, inspired by the classical motifs of the Warwick Vase, and the distinctive elegance of the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup, pay homage to the nation’s heritage and the champions they celebrate.
Darren May, General Manager at W.J. Sanders, along with his team, dedicated over 650 hours of meticulous work to create these trophies. Every curve, engraving, and polished surface reflects over a century of expertise in silversmithing, making these pieces timeless symbols of sporting triumph. May describes the trophies as “a celebration of Australia,” blending locally sourced precious metals and endangered smithing techniques to create masterpieces that stand as a testament to endurance, victory, and national pride.
The history embedded in these trophies is as captivating as their design. The Norman Brookes Challenge Cup, first awarded in 1934, reflects Roman artistry with intricate grapevines and figures that symbolize celebration and victory. Similarly, the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup, affectionately called ‘Daphne,’ honors its namesake, an Australian tennis icon who dominated the sport in the 1920s and 1930s.
In the lead-up to the tournament, the trophies are embarking on an ‘AO on the Road’ tour across Victoria, giving communities the chance to witness these masterpieces firsthand. This initiative celebrates the Australian Open’s enduring connection with its fans while showcasing the artistic brilliance behind the trophies.
As the Australian Open 2025 unfolds from January 6 to 26 at Melbourne Park, these trophies will take center stage, embodying the spirit of competition and the unparalleled artistry of Australian craftsmanship.
For more details about the trophy tour, visit the AO website.