Lacoste joins Aussie Open

MELBOURNE: European apparel group Lacoste has signed a multi-million dollar deal to keep officials and staff at January's Australian Open looking sharp. The French clothing company, founded by tennis great Rene Lacoste, will provide uniforms for linespeople, officials and ball boys and girls in supporting the event.

The agreement is similar to a deal between London-based tennis event Wimbledon and its agreement with Ralph Lauren. Other apparel and accessory sponsors already signed up for the event include Rolex and Nike.

Tennis Australia chief executive Steve Wood said the Open was now seen as a global super-brand and organisers were thrilled to have brands of this calibre supporting them.