Vegemite backs Australian Open

Australian food spread brand Vegemite has entered into a partnership with the Australian Open tennis tournament.

Vegemite has been named as the official ballkid partner of the grand slam event.

The length of the agreement was not disclosed but it will at least cover the 2018 Australian Open, which runs from January 15-28 in Melbourne.

Ashleigh Barty (pictured), Australia’s highest-ranked tennis player, has been named Vegemite ambassador for the ballkids as part of the agreement.

The Australian Open’s 350-strong ballkid squad includes 304 Victorians, 18 from elsewhere in Australia and 28 from France, China and Korea.

Adam McNamara, general manager of Bega Foods and Vegemite, said: “Vegemite can’t wait to kick off the partnership with the Australian Open ballkid squad, who are one of the most visible assets of the entire tournament.

“The Australian Open is such an iconic event and by fuelling the ballkids we will also be showcasing Australia’s most loved spread to the world. The Vegemite brand is focused on vitality, with Vegemite being one of the richest sources of B Vitamins, we are thrilled to be helping fuel the AO ballkids in 2018.”