The growth of the Australian Open, however, would not be the same without its core product – the players.

Going back a few decades, many European and American stars would not travel to Melbourne because of the distance and a general feeling it lacked prestige.

That has changed considerably – not least because Tiley introduced a travel grant for the players.

“A lot of players are happy to escape the European winter and see the other players again and catch up in the New Year,” Federer said.

“People are incredibly excited and pumped up about the Australian Open. The players can feel that. The vibe is incredibly happy.”

Particular emphasis is placed on high-quality player facilities.

A hi-tech racquet lab provides personalised strings and grips, while a health suite offers physiotherapy, massage therapy and plunge pools.

Specialist medical treatment – an ophthalmologist, dermatologist, podiatrist and orthopaedist – is available, as are nutritionists and hydrationists, while chefs rustle up home comforts from every corner of the globe.

A beauty salon, including barbers, pedicurists and manicurists, is also on hand, along with a laundry service and dry cleaners.

There is even an on-site bank.

“We have a complete tourism service. We provide pretty much anything you can think of to service an athlete,” Tiley said in a recent interview with Forbes magazine.