Australian Open in-play betting could speed up IGA review

High level of in-play betting on the Australian Open is expected to put pressure on the Australian Government to speed up Interactive Gambling Act review.

William Hill has become the first ever bookmaker to partner with a Grand Slam tennis tournament. Its sponsorship with Australia Open, which was according to reports to have cost $4 million, is part of the William Hill’s effort to extend the range of its in-play products to tennis fans.

“Tennis is a key product for In-Play and William Hill Australia will continue to extend its product range to include the ability to live-stream matches and bet in-play around these events,’’ William Hill said in a statement.

As part of the agreement, electronic advertising boards, similar to those around the MCG and Etihad Stadium, have been installed inside Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and Hisense Arena. The boards will show William Hill’s ads during breaks in play as well as commercials from other sponsors.