Forget Media Wars: Murdoch and Stokes Families Share a Friendly Moment at the Australian Open
Updated February 1, 2026 — 7:35pm, first published 6:16pm
The Murdoch and Stokes dynasties, known for their fierce competition in the media landscape, put aside their professional rivalry for a warm encounter at the Australian Open. In a surprising twist, Ryan Stokes, CEO of Seven Group Holdings and son of Kerry Stokes, former Channel Seven chairman, literally bumped into Sarah Murdoch, daughter-in-law of media titan Rupert Murdoch and wife of Lachlan Murdoch, the powerful executive at Fox Corporation, News Corp, and Nova Entertainment.
This unexpected meeting occurred within the exclusive corporate hospitality zones of the tournament, the modern-day equivalent of the Gilded Age. Stokes, strolling solo, was en route to the ANZ marquee, experiencing a resurgence at the Open thanks to the enthusiasm of its tennis-loving CEO, Nuno Matos. Meanwhile, Murdoch, accompanied by friend Rebecca Tomsic and Tennis Australia personnel, was headed in the opposite direction towards the Emirates marquee.
Recognizing each other, Stokes and Murdoch engaged in a heartfelt conversation, oblivious to the delighted photographers capturing the moment. And this is the part most people miss: Murdoch, recently seen with Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates, appeared increasingly concerned as Stokes spoke. While the exact nature of their discussion remains private, speculation arose about whether it involved the shared challenges of navigating relationships with aging parents. Kerry Stokes, after all, is stepping down as chairman of his media company this month as part of a merger with Southern Cross Media.
Their encounter wasn't their first; they had crossed paths at the Murdochs' renowned Christmas party in December. They parted ways with a promise to reconnect later.
But here's where it gets controversial: Just a stone's throw away, actor Sarah Snook, famed for her role in the dysfunctional family drama Succession, was present in the Ralph Lauren marquee. Given the Murdoch family's own well-publicized power struggles, one can't help but wonder if Snook, an expert in fictional family feuds, could have offered some sage advice.
Earlier, actor Liam Hemsworth, sporting dark sunglasses and a stoic expression, had navigated through a crowd with a sizable entourage of minders. His reception paled in comparison to the frenzy surrounding K-pop sensation DK.
The Generation Game:
The Australian Open also witnessed the presence of celebrity chef Guillaume Brahimi and billionaire heiress Tamie Ingham, expecting their first child. The couple, attending a pre-game dinner in the Emirates marquee, expressed excitement about the upcoming match, highlighting the intergenerational clash on the court.
Tennis Royalty and Corporate Power Players:
Tennis legend Rafael Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, graced the exclusive O enclosure at Rod Laver Arena, potentially offering insights to Carlos Alcaraz, dubbed the 'new Nadal'. He was joined by former Formula 1 driver Mark Webber, America's Cup winner John Bertrand, and a host of corporate heavyweights, including trucking magnates Lindsay and Andrew Fox, Rupert Myer of the Myer dynasty, and former Woolworths CEO Brad Banducci, now leading Ticketek.
Nine's Strategic Seating Arrangements:
The Open serves as a prime networking opportunity for Australia's elite. Nine, owner of this publication, strategically seated its CEO Matt Stanton alongside Craig and Suzie Laundy, heirs to the Laundy pub empire, who recently acquired Nine's radio assets. On Stanton's other side sat Chris Hadley of Quadrant, from whom Nine purchased an outdoor advertising business. This seating arrangement seemed to symbolize Nine's new alliances.
Notable Absences:
Notably absent was Communications and Sport Minister Anika Wells, embroiled in a parliamentary expenses scandal. Her absence from the Open, an event she typically attends, suggests a deliberate retreat from the public eye. Similarly, Governor-General Sam Mostyn was absent due to scheduling conflicts, though her office confirmed her recent attendance at the Ashes in Sydney.
As the Australian Open continues to unfold, it not only showcases sporting excellence but also provides a fascinating glimpse into the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics within Australia's media, corporate, and political spheres. Does this friendly encounter between Murdoch and Stokes signal a thawing of their media rivalry, or is it merely a fleeting moment of civility in a fiercely competitive industry? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
