There’s something magical about January in Melbourne. The sun is blazing, the city is buzzing, and the world’s best tennis players are ready to battle it out on the biggest stage. The 2026 Australian Open, running from January 18 to February 1, 2026, marks the 115th edition of this iconic Grand Slam and promises two unforgettable weeks of elite tennis, electric crowds, and summer vibes you just can’t replicate anywhere else.
2026 Australian Open
Date: January 18 – February 1, 2026
Location: Melbourne Park, Australia
Start time: 11:00 AM AEDT
Whether you’re planning to attend in person or watch from your couch, this guide covers everything you need to know—from schedules and tickets to venues and live streaming options.
Australian Open 2026 at a Glance
| Category | Details |
| Main Dates | Sunday, January 18 – Sunday, February 1, 2026 |
| Opening Week | Monday, January 12 – Saturday, January 17 (Qualifying) |
| Venue | Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia |
| Surface | Hard Court (GreenSet) |
| Defending Champions | Men: Jannik Sinner (ITA) / Women: Madison Keys (USA) |
| Top Seeds (Projected) | Men: Carlos Alcaraz / Women: Aryna Sabalenka |
| Total Rounds | 7 (128-player singles draw) |
The 2026 Australian Open spans three weeks, including an Opening Week filled with qualifying matches and entertainment.
Location & Venue
- Melbourne Park, Australia
- Home of the Australian Open since 1988
Edition & Significance
- 115th Australian Open
- First Grand Slam of the tennis calendar year
Quick-Reference Finals Schedule
If you are planning your viewing for the final weekend, these are the confirmed sessions:
- Women’s Semifinals: Thursday, Jan 29 (11:00 AM Twilight Session)
- Men’s Semifinals: Friday, Jan 30 (Split: 12:00 PM Day / 7:30 PM Night)
- Women’s Final: Saturday, Jan 31 (7:30 PM Twilight)
- Men’s Final: Sunday, Feb 1 (7:30 PM Twilight)
💡 Pro Tip: Since today is January 5th, the Official Draw will be held in exactly 10 days (Thursday, Jan 15). That is when we will know which half of the bracket the top stars like Alcaraz, Sinner, and Swiatek are in.
Why the Australian Open Is So Special
First Grand Slam of the Year
The Australian Open sets the tone for the entire tennis season. Players arrive hungry, fans arrive hopeful, and anything feels possible.
Summer Tennis Atmosphere
Unlike the chilly starts elsewhere, Melbourne offers sunshine, blue skies, and evening matches under the lights. It’s tennis with a summer holiday vibe.
Melbourne’s Global Appeal
Melbourne isn’t just a host city—it’s part of the experience. From coffee culture to street art and world-class dining, the city feels like a second tournament venue.
2026 Australian Open Key Dates Explained
Opening Week & Qualifying Rounds
- January 12–15, 2026
This is where future stars fight for a spot in the main draw, and fans enjoy a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Main Draw Highlights
- First Round: January 18–20
- Quarterfinals: January 27–28
This is where the drama ramps up, rivalries ignite, and late-night classics are born.
Finals Weekend Breakdown
- Women’s Singles Final: Saturday, January 31
- Men’s Singles Final: Sunday, February 1
Two nights, two champions, and memories that last a lifetime.
2026 Australian Open Full Schedule Overview
The Australian Open offers Day, Night, and Twilight sessions—perfect for every type of fan.
Day Sessions vs Night Sessions
- Day Sessions: Start at 11:00 AM
- Night Sessions: Start around 7:00 PM
Day sessions are ideal for families, while night sessions bring the drama under the lights.
Twilight Sessions Explained
Twilight sessions usually feature marquee matches, including semifinals and finals, starting in the early evening.
Order of Play & Match Announcements
The order of play—which players compete on which courts—is released the evening before matches, keeping fans on their toes.
Melbourne Park: The Iconic Venue
History of Melbourne Park
Formerly known as Flinders Park, Melbourne Park has been the heart of Australian tennis for decades.
Stadium Courts Overview
- Rod Laver Arena – Center court and the crown jewel
- John Cain Arena – High-energy atmosphere
- Margaret Court Arena – Intimate yet intense
Retractable Roof Advantage
All three stadiums feature retractable roofs, ensuring uninterrupted play regardless of weather—something no other Grand Slam can boast.
Australian Open Playing Surface
GreenSet Hard Courts
The tournament is played on blue GreenSet hard courts, known for consistent bounce and player-friendly speed.
How the Surface Impacts Play Style
This surface rewards aggressive baseline play while still allowing crafty defenders to thrive—a perfect balance that produces thrilling rallies.
Tickets for the 2026 Australian Open
Types of Tickets Available
- Ground passes
- Stadium tickets
- Day, Night, or Twilight sessions
Best Sessions to Attend
Early rounds offer more matches across multiple courts, while finals deliver unforgettable atmosphere.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
Book early, choose shaded seats for day sessions, and don’t underestimate ground passes—they’re gold.
Preferred & Premium Ticket Packages
Stadium Seating Options
Premium seats provide excellent sightlines and access to exclusive lounges.
Hospitality Experiences
Enjoy gourmet dining, premium drinks, and the best seats in the house—all while watching tennis royalty.
How to Watch the 2026 Australian Open Live
Can’t make it to Melbourne? No worries. The tournament is broadcast globally with extensive streaming options.
Official Broadcasters by Region
Coverage varies, but every major tennis market is well served.
Streaming Options Worldwide
Most broadcasters offer live streaming via apps or online platforms, making it easy to watch anywhere.
Australian Open 2026 Broadcasters Breakdown
Australia
- Channel 9 (Free-to-air)
- 9Now (Streaming)
- Stan Sport (Ad-free, 4K UHD)
United States
- ESPN
- ESPN2
- ESPN+
UK & Europe
- Eurosport
- discovery+
Canada
- TSN
- RDS
India & Subcontinent
- Sony Sports Network
- SonyLIV
Other Regions
- ESPN International
- beIN Sports
- SuperSport
What Makes Melbourne a Must-Visit During the Open
Food, Culture & Entertainment
Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise, with laneway cafés, rooftop bars, and global cuisine.
Things to Do Between Matches
Explore the Yarra River, catch live music, or wander through the city’s famous street art alleys.
Tips for Attending the Australian Open in Person
Beating the Heat
Hydrate, wear sunscreen, and plan breaks—Australian summer is no joke.
Getting Around Melbourne Park
Public transport is seamless, and most tickets include free travel within the city zone.
Players & Storylines to Watch in 2026
Rising Stars
Each year brings new faces ready to shock the tennis world.
Veteran Comebacks
The Australian Open often delivers emotional returns and last dances from legends of the game.
The 2026 Australian Open isn’t just a tennis tournament—it’s a full-blown summer festival of sport, culture, and unforgettable moments. From the electric night matches at Rod Laver Arena to the buzzing streets of Melbourne, this Grand Slam continues to set the gold standard. Whether you’re attending live or watching from afar, January 18 to February 1, 2026, is a date every tennis fan should circle in bold.
FAQs
When does the 2026 Australian Open start and end?
The tournament runs from January 18 to February 1, 2026, with qualifying rounds starting January 12.
Where is the 2026 Australian Open held?
It takes place at Melbourne Park, Australia.
How can I watch the Australian Open live online?
You can stream it via official broadcasters like 9Now, Stan Sport, ESPN+, Eurosport, SonyLIV, and more depending on your region.
What surface is used at the Australian Open?
The tournament is played on GreenSet hard courts.
Are night matches available at the Australian Open?
Yes, night sessions start around 7:00 PM and are among the most popular.
Note: For more information visit their official website or stay updated – Sports Arena News
