Flynn Stewart was meant to toss the coin at an Australian Open match, but the statewide five-day lockdown happened at the most inopportune time.
Flynn, eight, from Barwon Heads, had some of that disappointment erased when Croatian star Donna Vekic surprised him with a video call.
The 24-year-old 28th seed had just won her third-round match against unseeded Estonian Kaia Kanepi.
Flynn, who plays with Barwon Heads Tennis Club, asked Vekic what her favourite playing surface was.
“I really enjoy playing on grass, so Wimbledon is definitely one of my favourite tournaments,” she answered.
“I used to hate clay, now the last couple of years I like it as well, but grass is definitely special.”
Flynn then asked Vekic what she liked about Melbourne.
“I like that there’s good coffee everywhere,” she said.
“You’re probably too young to drink coffee, but there’s good coffee everywhere.
“I’m actually staying close to Albert Park this year and the park is so nice. I’ve been having some runs around the lake and walks so I’ve been really enjoying it.
“What I don’t like is the weather. It changes daily.”
And while Vekic won a new fan, she was unable to win her fourth-round match against 22nd seed American Jennifer Brady.
