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Australian Open stars take a time out - PICTURES

Cape Town - It's the first major of the year and the tennis world has turned all of its attention to Melbourne for the Australian Open. 

The competition, as always, is fierce as 128 men and women began the week looking to etch their names in history. 

But it is not all about the tennis. 

While most of us have returned to the daily grind in 2017 to be stuck behind our desks, taking on the challenges of a new year, tennis' elite are living it up 'Down Under'. 

Our friends at Getty Images spent some time in and around Melbourne Park on Wednesday as players - past and present - soaked up the experience. 

Here are some of their best "shots":

Angelique Kerber celebrates her 29th birthday with a cake given to her by tournament organisers at Melbourne Park.

Marcos Baghdatis from Cyprus took some time out from the courts to visit a local barber.

Novak Djokovic takes a break from practice to sign a couple of autographs.

Gilles Muller spent some time with his children at the kids zone at Melbourne Park.

Australian legend Rod Laver was all smiles as he launched his very own shoe.

Aussie teenage sensation Alex De Minaur enjoys a dip in the ocean.

Elena Visnina poses at the famous graffiti laneway Hosier Lane in Melbourne.

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