After the end of an exciting 2025 season, tennis fans are awaiting the start of the Australian Open 2026. The main draws will commence on January 12, and the tournament will continue till February 1. The first grand slam event of the year will take place in its traditional home of Melbourne. As always, the Australian Open will feature a variety of competition categories, ranging from the professional singles draws to junior, wheelchair, and exhibition events. Roger Federer Elected to 2026 Class of International Tennis Hall of Fame.

While the final 2026 pool is yet to be fully confirmed, it is expected to surpass the record AUSD 86.5 million from the 2025 edition, continuing the trend of annual increases in player compensation.

Australian Open 2026 Time and Venue

The Grand Slam tournament is scheduled to begin on January 18.

Venue: Melbourne Park in Melbourne

Time: 5:30 AM, 6:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 12:15 PM, 2:40 PM , 3:00 PM, and 1:30 PM IST (Indian Standard Time)

How to Watch Australian Open 2026 Live Streaming and Telecast in India

Indian viewers can follow the Australian Open Grand Slam action through the following options:

Live Streaming: SonyLIV will provide live streaming of Australian Open matches, with Sony Sports Network as the official broadcast partner. Fans can watch the Australian Open 2026 tennis matches live on the SonyLIV app and website.

Telecast: TheSony Sports Network are the official broadcast partners for the Australian Open Grand Slam in India. Fans can find TV viewing options of Australian Open 2026 tennis matches on Sony Sports Network  TV channels, subject to scheduling. Rohan Bopanna Retires: India Tennis Star And Two-Time Grand Slam Winner Announces Retirement After 22 Years.

Australian Open 2026 Contenders

World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz enters the tournament chasing a career Grand Slam. He faces a major challenge from world No. 2 Jannik Sinner, the defending champion (2024, 2025), who is aiming for a historic "three-peat." Novak Djokovic, a 10-time champion, returns as world No. 4.

World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka headlines the draw after reaching the last three finals in Melbourne. Defending champion Madison Keys and world No. 2 Iga Świątek (targeting a career Slam) are among the top contenders.

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams, aged 45, has received a wildcard, making her the oldest woman ever to compete in an Australian Open main draw.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 04, 2026 01:49 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).