The patterns throughout the men and women's apparel were created by Australian-raised artist Cassie Byrnes, who finds inspiration through the tropical beauty of North Queensland, translating it onto watercolor paper through pigment inks and gouache. "I start with a considered palette and story," she says. "Then I play with mark-making, texture and composition to capture the essence and spirit of the theme." The year’s opening slam in Melbourne boasts a raucous atmosphere, drawing an annual attendance of more than 700,000. Melbourne also tracks the hottest temperatures of any of tennis’ four majors. Averaging more than 100 degrees, the heat challenges players and, in turn, NikeCourt’s apparel designers to outduel the fiery conditions. To account for heat during play, a knee-length bodysuit was developed for women as a baselayer. This garment is informed by Atlas body-mapping to identify the areas that tend to overheat (notably under the bra and at the neckli...