Team USA will attempt to hand Australia its first-ever defeat on Newport grass when the countries clash Saturday in the Newport International Polo Series presented by Turkish Airlines.
The 4 p.m. match at the International Polo Grounds marks Australia’s fourth visit to Newport since debuting in the series in 1994. The Aussies have maintained a perfect record during their once-per-decade trips to Rhode Island.
“This is going to be a proper nail-biter,” series organizers said in a statement. “Australia always plays with big energy, and Team USA is hungry to hand them their first-ever defeat here at Newport Polo.”
Australia’s roster features a mix of veteran leadership and proven talent. Captain Angus Campbell, a grazier and former 4-goal international, makes his fourth Newport appearance while serving as president of the Goulburn Polo Club. Jeremy Bayard brings four decades of experience as NSW Polo President and founder of the Australian Polo Hall of Fame.
The team also includes Sam Hopkinson, described as bringing “finesse and fearless play,” and Nick Wills, a hospitality industry executive known for his post-match celebrations.
Weekend festivities begin Friday with Sydney Sundowners at Beech in Jamestown. Saturday’s match will be followed by an après-polo celebration in the TD Pavilion featuring cuisine by Little Fish Tacos & Ceviche.
The Newport International Polo Series, now in its 34th year, draws teams from six continents for competition in Newport. Australia joins the tournament as one of the world’s premier polo nations.
Tickets and information are available at newportpolo.com.
