Get ready, tennis fans – the Australian Open 2026 is almost here, and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable showdown! But here’s where it gets controversial: with rising stars and seasoned legends colliding, who will dominate the courts this year? The first Grand Slam of the season kicks off in Melbourne, and we’ve got all the details you need to stay ahead of the game. From schedules and draws to UK viewing times and player lineups, this is your ultimate guide to the action.
When does the action begin? The qualifying rounds start on Monday, 12 January, and run through Thursday, 15 January. The main draw matches will light up the courts from Sunday, 18 January, culminating in the grand finale on Sunday, 1 February. And for wheelchair tennis enthusiasts, the main draws are set from Tuesday, 27 January, to Saturday, 31 January. Matches begin at 00:00 UK time on the outside courts and 1:00 on the show courts, with night sessions starting at 8:00 PM. Mark your calendars – you won’t want to miss a moment!
Where is the magic happening? Melbourne Park, Victoria, Australia – one of the world’s largest tennis venues and the proud home of the Australian Open since 1988. With three iconic show courts – the Rod Laver Arena (15,000 seats), John Cain Arena (10,500 seats), and Margaret Court Arena (7,500 seats) – this venue is a tennis lover’s dream. Fun fact: In 2025, the tournament welcomed over one million fans for the first time ever!
What’s on the schedule? Here’s the breakdown:
- Men’s & Women’s Singles: 18 January – 1 February
- Men’s & Women’s Doubles: 20–31 January
- Mixed Doubles: 22–30 January
- Wheelchair Events: 27–31 January
- Junior Events: 24 January – 1 February
For the full schedule, head to official schedule link.
Who’s in the draw? The official draw will be announced closer to the event, so stay tuned! Check back here or visit Australian Open draws for updates. And don’t forget to catch the daily order of play at order of play link.
How can you watch? Stream every thrilling moment live on Eurosport and discovery+ streaming link.
Which British stars are competing? Let’s meet the homegrown talent:
Women’s Singles:
- Emma Raducanu: Fresh off her career-best performance in 2025, where she stunned Ekaterina Alexandrova and Amanda Anisimova before facing Iga Swiatek. Can she go even further this year?
- Sonay Kartal: Returning to Melbourne after a breakthrough 2025 season, including a fourth-round run at Wimbledon and a win over world No.5 Mirra Andreeva.
- Francesca Jones: Back in the top 100 and aiming for her first Grand Slam win after qualifying in 2021.
Men’s Singles:
- Cam Norrie: Ended 2025 on a high with a Wimbledon quarter-final, a US Open third-round appearance, and a stunning win over Carlos Alcaraz at the Paris Masters.
- Jacob Fearnley: Made waves last year by upsetting Nick Kyrgios in his Australian Open debut and reaching the third round.
- Jack Draper: Unfortunately withdrew from the 2025 edition due to injury, but we’re hopeful for his return.
Top Seeds to Watch:
Women’s Singles: Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, Amanda Anisimova, Elena Rybakina.
Men’s Singles: Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, Novak Djokovic, Felix Auger-Aliassime.
2025 Champions Recap:
- Men’s Singles: Jannik Sinner (ITA)
- Women’s Singles: Madison Keys (USA)
- Men’s Doubles: Henry Patten (GBR) & Harri Heliovaara (FIN)
- Wheelchair Quad Doubles: Andy Lapthorne (GBR) & Sam Schroder (NED)
Prize Money: Details coming soon – stay tuned for updates!
British Tennis Legacy: Did you know? Virginia Wade remains the only British player to win the Australian Open singles title in the Open Era, back in 1972. And while Andy Murray has come close, reaching the final five times, he’s yet to lift the trophy. But here’s a thought-provoking question: With rising British talent like Raducanu and Norrie, could 2026 be the year Britain breaks the drought?
From historic moments to future legends, the Australian Open 2026 promises drama, excitement, and unforgettable tennis. Who are you rooting for? Let the debate begin in the comments!
