Overview
- Alexander Zverev beat Gabriel Diallo 6:7 (1:7), 6:1, 6:4, 6:2 to reach round two in Melbourne and will next face Alexei Popyrin or Alexandre Müller.
- The Australian Open runs in Melbourne from 18 January to 1 February, launching the 2026 Grand Slam season.
- Eva Lys is set to play Sorana Cirstea in the first round, acknowledging pressure to defend last year’s points as coach Torben Beltz backs her chances.
- Novak Djokovic said he still sees a path to a record 25th major and argued Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner are not unbeatable.
- Tournament organizers granted Venus Williams a wildcard, with the 45-year-old opening against Olga Danilovic, as eight Germans and three Austrians feature in the main draw.