The tennis world is set to begin its new season with a blockbuster event as the Australian Open 2026 prepares to launch the Grand Slam calendar. The iconic Melbourne Park will once again be the centre of global sporting attention, with defending champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys returning to face the world's best. The tournament promises high-octane action, historic title pursuits, and a record-breaking financial incentive for the athletes.
Australian Open 2026: Complete Tournament Schedule
The road to glory in Melbourne starts early with the qualifying rounds commencing on Monday, January 12, 2026. The main event kicks off shortly after, with the official draw ceremony scheduled for Thursday, January 15, where the paths for all 128 singles players will be revealed. The main singles draw action begins on Sunday, January 18.
The tournament will unfold over two thrilling weeks, culminating in the women's final on Saturday, January 31 and the men's final on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Fans can follow the progression through each round:
- January 18-20: First Round
- January 21-22: Second Round
- January 23-24: Third Round
- January 25-26: Fourth Round
- January 27-28: Quarter-finals
- January 29: Women's Semi-finals
- January 30: Men's Semi-finals
- January 31: Women's Final
- February 1: Men's Final
Alongside the marquee singles events, the tournament will feature exciting competitions in doubles, mixed doubles, wheelchair, and junior categories.
Star-Studded Field and Historic Title Pursuits
The player field for the Australian Open 2026 is bursting with elite talent, setting the stage for unforgettable clashes. In the men's draw, all eyes will be on Italy's Jannik Sinner, who returns as the defending champion. He will aim for a historic third consecutive title at Melbourne Park, a feat that would cement his legacy on these fast hard courts. His path will be fiercely contested by rivals like the explosive Carlos Alcaraz of Spain and the legendary Novak Djokovic of Serbia, both capable of producing epic battles.
The women's draw is famously open and competitive. Defending champion Madison Keys of the USA will need to be at her powerful best to navigate a field packed with major champions. She will face stern challenges from the likes of Aryna Sabalenka, a recent finalist, world number one Iga Swiatek of Poland, and US Open champion Coco Gauff.
Record-Breaking Prize Money Pool Announced
In a major announcement, Tennis Australia has revealed a staggering 16% increase in the total prize money for the 2026 edition. The overall purse has been set at approximately $74.9 million USD, setting a new record for the tournament and underlining its status as a premier event in world sport.
This significant investment ensures substantial rewards at every stage of the competition. The champions will take home a winner's cheque of around $2.79 million, while the runner-up will earn $1.44 million. Even players exiting in the early rounds are well compensated, with first-round participants guaranteed $101,076. This financial commitment highlights the tournament's dedication to supporting professional athletes across the rankings.
As the first Grand Slam of the year, the Australian Open 2026 is perfectly positioned to deliver drama, breakthrough performances, and career-defining moments. With its perfect blend of top-tier talent, a world-class venue at Melbourne Park, and unprecedented prize money, the stage is set for a truly spectacular fortnight of tennis.
