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2026 is off to a smashing start in Australia, with the pre-tournament for the Australian Open – the Southern Hemisphere's largest annual sporting event – having officially launched. Last year, more than 1.2 million fans flocked to Melbourne Park to see the biggest names in tennis battle it out across the three-week tennis grand slam.
In 2026, the action will be hotter than ever, featuring exhibition matches, giant screens, endless Aperols, pop-up activations, and live performances from Peggy Gou, Reneé Rapp and the Kid Laroi – sounds ace! Here’s everything you need to know about when and how to watch the Australian Open 2026.
When does the Australian Open start?
The Australian Open officially kicks off on Sunday, January 12th and ends on Sunday, February 1st. The main draw kicks off on Sunday, January 18, with qualifying matches happening the week before, from Monday, January 12 to Saturday, January 17.
Where is the Australian Open?
The Australian Open will take place at Melbourne Park in Victoria across 39 courts, including the iconic 15,000-seat Rod Laver Arena, John Cain Arena and Margaret Court Arena.
Where to watch the Australian Open?
You can watch all the Australian Open matches live and free across the Nine Network, or catch them ad-free on Stan Sport.
How to get tickets for the Australian Open?
You can book both day and night sessions via the Australian Open website, with single-day ground pass tickets starting at $49. Best to book your tickets sooner rather than later!
Who won the Australian Open in 2025?
Italian tennis sensation Jannik Sinner claimed victory at the 2025 Australian Open and currently reigns as WTA's world number one in men’s singles. On the women’s side, USA's Madison Keys beat Belarusian powerhouse (and reigning number one in the women's WTA rankings) Aryna Sabalenka to win the 2025 Australian Open.
Who is playing in the Australian Open?
Ten-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic will return to Melbourne Park in 2026, alongside defending champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys, world number one male Carlos Alcaaz, and two-time Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka. Australia’s very own Alex de Minaur (world number seven), Maya Joint (world number 32), Alexei Popyrin, Olivia Gadecki and John Peers will also be competing in the 2026 Australian Open.
Is Kyrgios playing in the Australian Open?
Nick Kyrgios revealed on social media that he won't be competing in the men's singles at the 2026 Australian Open, as he doesn't feel ready to play a five-set match. However, he will play in the doubles event with partner Thanasi Kokkinakis.
When is the Australian Open draw released?
The Australian Open draw will be released on Thursday, January 15, at 2.30pm AEDT. You can keep updated with the schedule here.
When is the Australian Open final?
The Australian Open finals for the women’s singles and men’s doubles will take place on Saturday, January 31, starting at 7.30pm AEDT. The women’s doubles final will follow on Sunday, February 1 at 2pm, with the men's singles final rounding out the competition at 7.30pm AEDT.
What is the prize money for the Australian Open tennis?
The 2026 Australian Open boasts a record-breaking prize pool of $111.5 million, up from $96.5 million in 2025. Singles champions will pocket $4.15 million, while runners-up will take home $2.15 million and semifinalists will score $1.25 million.