If you thought the only virtual place you can get involved with Australian Open 2008 is on the AO website, think again.
The Australian Open has found another home in virtual reality, offering users of Second Life a chance to mix it up as budding designers.
IBM is holding a competition to find out who can design the best virtual tennis outfit, with the winner pocketing $250,000 worth of virtual currency known as Linden dollars.
Although Linden money won’t be worth much at your corner store in the 'real world', it can buy you buildings, vehicles, clothing and even new skin in the universe of Second Life.
The internet-based world has become particularly popular in the past couple of years, allowing users to create their own identities, known as 'avatars', to meet and socialise with other users.
Melbourne Park has its own place in virtual reality, with Rod Laver Arena the star attraction for those users who can’t make it to the real thing.
The winner of IBM's competition will be announced on January 25.
