Police have arrested and charged a 22-year-old British man with betting courtside at the Australian Open.

Officers saw the man at Melbourne Park on Tuesday evening taking part in "courtsiding" - placing bets on the point outcomes during a tennis match.

Police believe he is part of an Eastern European crime syndicate that targets international sports events.

He was arrested at 5.30pm and charged with one count of engaging in conduct that would corrupt a betting outcome. Police do not believe any players are involved.

He was bailed to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday and has been banned from attending the Australian Open as part of his bail conditions.