Over the course of the next three weeks the Lexus Centre will serve as a training facility for the some of the world's elite tennis competitors.

Seven-time Grand Slam winner, Venus Williams, caught up with Collingwood’s Harry O’Brien during one of her workouts.

Williams, who made the 2003 Australian Open final, will contend for the Grand Slam when the tournament commences on January 19.

“She is an extremely nice person,” O’Brien told collingwoodfc.com.au.

“I have always admired her sporting ability and will be looking forward to watching her play at the Open.”

The club is also excited at the prospect of 2008 Australian Open champion, Novak Djokovic, training and meeting the players at the Lexus Centre in the coming weeks.

The 21 year old has already 11 career titles and will look to defend his 2008 Open title in Melbourne next week.