US billionaire Bill Gates and Aussie comedian Andy Lee beam as they join fellow A-Listers at the Australian Open in Melbourne

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The Australian Open isn't just a showcase of world-class tennis - it's also become one of the most glamorous dates on the celebrity calendar.

And this year's tournament has once again drawn an A-list crowd, with global power players, Australian entertainment royalty and sporting legends all spotted courtside at Melbourne Park.

Among those enjoying the action on Thursday was Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, 70, who kept a low-key profile as he watched the tennis from premium seats at Rod Laver Arena.

The billionaire philanthropist opted for a pared-back look in a black polo shirt and glasses, accessorised with an official Australian Open lanyard, as he took in the atmosphere among fellow spectators.

Also in attendance was former AFL star turned outspoken TV personality Sam Newman, 80, who appeared deep in concentration while watching the on-court drama unfold.

The footy great, dressed casually in a blue T-shirt, was seen sitting among the crowd as fans packed into the stadium for another blockbuster match.

The Australian Open isn’t just a showcase of world-class tennis - it's also become one of the most glamorous dates on the celebrity calendar. Among those enjoying the action was Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who kept a low-key profile as he watched the tennis 

The billionaire philanthropist opted for a pared-back look as he took in the atmosphere among fellow spectators

Also in attendance was former AFL star turned outspoken TV personality Sam Newman, who appeared deep in concentration while watching the on-court drama unfold. The footy great, dressed casually in a blue T-shirt, was seen sitting among the crowd

Australian comedian Andy Lee was also spotted soaking up the action alongside his partner Rebecca Harding, with the loved-up couple appearing relaxed and in high spirits as they watched from their seats

Australian comedian Andy Lee was also spotted soaking up the action alongside his partner Rebecca Harding, with the loved-up couple appearing relaxed and in high spirits as they watched from their seats. 

Andy, 44, cut a casual figure in a navy jacket layered over a striped T-shirt, while Rebecca, 34, looked effortlessly chic in a white sleeveless top and sunglasses as the pair laughed together during play.

Veteran journalist Liz Hayes, 69, was another familiar face in the stands, cutting a stylish figure in a chic cream blazer as she followed the match with interest from her courtside seat.

The respected 60 Minutes reporter appeared in good spirits as she watched a gripping match, blending seamlessly into the star-studded crowd.

Basketball legend Andrew Gaze, 60, was also spotted in the crowd, with the former Boomers captain looking every bit the sports fan as he watched the action unfold.

The sports star opted for a relaxed outfit and was seen leaning forward in his seat during tense moments of play, clearly invested in the match.

Australian Olympic middle-distance runner Peter Bol, 31, was also spotted among the crowd, looking sharp in an all-white ensemble as he cheered on the players. 

It follows reports that Bec Judd has cemented herself as the queen of the WAGs with her glamorous appearances at the Australian Open over the past week.

Andy, 44, cut a casual figure in a navy jacket layered over a striped T-shirt, while Rebecca, 34, looked effortlessly chic in a white sleeveless top and sunglasses as the pair laughed together during play

Veteran journalist Liz Hayes was another familiar face in the stands, cutting a stylish figure in a chic cream blazer as she followed the match with interest from her courtside seat

Basketball legend Andrew Gaze was also spotted at Melbourne Park, with the former Boomers captain looking every bit the sports fan as he watched the action unfold

Australian Olympic middle-distance runner Peter Bol, 31, was also spotted among the crowd, looking sharp in an all-white ensemble as he cheered on the players

And the wife of AFL star Chris Judd may be shelling out a pretty penny for her prime position courtside at the tennis tournament in Melbourne.

The 43-year-old was spotted sitting in on-court seats at matches this week - and the true cost of that privilege has been revealed.

On-court seating at Rod Laver Arena can run as high as $20,000, with the popular spots already sold out.

Bec was in A-list company, with other celebrities in her section including Scottish actor Gerard Butler and Jaggad co-founder Michele Greene.

The ticket price doesn't just include an unrestricted view of the tennis court.

Also offered up is a meal made by top chef Shimpei Raikuni from Brisbane's Sushi Room, which is served in a private dining space.

Additionally, Piper Heidsieck champagne is served, and a chauffeur is on hand to take guests to and from the venue.

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