Australian Open is set to usher in the 2026 tennis season in grand fashion, with an expanded schedule, record-breaking prize money, and several player-focused upgrades shaping the year’s first Grand Slam.
From revised timelines to increased financial support, the Melbourne Major continues to evolve while maintaining its status as one of the sport’s most anticipated events.
Australian Open 2026 dates and full schedule
The Australian Open 2026 will run from 15 January to 1 February, continuing the 18-day format introduced in recent editions.
Qualifying rounds are scheduled between 15–17 January, giving players additional rest and recovery time before the main draw begins.
The main draw starts on Sunday, 18 January, with matches split between day and night sessions. Day play typically begins between 11:00am and 12:00pm, while night sessions start at 7:00pm local time.
Round-by-round breakdown:
First round: 18–20 January
Second round: 21–22 January
Third round: 23–24 January
Fourth round: 25–26 January
Quarterfinals: 27–28 January
Women’s semifinals: Thursday, 29 January
Men’s semifinals: Friday, 30 January
Finals weekend will feature twilight sessions:
Saturday, 31 January: Women’s singles final, men’s doubles final
Sunday, 1 February: Women’s doubles final, men’s singles final
Daily orders of play will be released the evening before each session.
Australian Open 2026 draw date and where to watch
The official draw for the Australian Open 2026 will take place at 2:30pm AEDT on Thursday, 15 January. Hosted by Todd Woodbridge and Jelena Dokic, the ceremony will confirm men’s and women’s singles brackets ahead of first-round action.
For the first time, the draw will also be staged at the Grand Slam Oval fan stage, with the broadcast displayed across Melbourne Park. Fans can watch live via ausopen.com, the Australian Open’s YouTube channel, and Facebook.
Broadcast and streaming details
In Australia, the tournament will be shown live and free on Channel 9, with additional coverage available on Stan Sport.
International viewers can tune in via ESPN (United States), Eurosport (Europe), and Sony Sports Network (India and Subcontinent). Live scores, schedules, and highlights will also be available through the official Australian Open website and app.
Record prize money and player support
The Australian Open 2026 prize pool has surged to $111.5 million, a 16% increase from 2025 and the first time the tournament has crossed the $100 million mark.
A significant portion of this increase has been directed toward lower-ranked players, with qualifying prize money up 16%, alongside enhanced travel assistance and welfare initiatives.
What’s new for players in 2026?
Tennis Australia has boosted travel assistance by 67%, addressing the challenges faced by players competing far from home.
The extended 18-day format also aims to reduce late-night finishes and protect players in Melbourne’s intense summer heat.
Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley emphasized the long-term vision behind these changes, saying:
“From boosting qualifying prize money by 55% since 2023 to enhancing player benefits, we’re ensuring professional tennis is sustainable for all competitors.”
With higher stakes, improved scheduling, and greater support across the field, the Australian Open 2026 is positioned to deliver another compelling start to the tennis calendar.