By Ben VerbruggeShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberThe First Round of the 2026 Australian Open kicks off with Carlos Alcaraz, Coco Gauff, Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and Venus Williams all in action this weekend.
...How to Watch 2026 Australian Open - Men's & Women's First Round Singles
- When: Saturday, January 17, 2026
- Time: 10:00 PM ET (first televised coverage)
- TV Channel: ESPN2
- Live Stream: Fubo (try for free)
The men’s first round in Melbourne is set to feature an intriguing mix of established stars and dangerous challengers as world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz opens against Australia’s Adam Walton while defending champion Jannik Sinner begins his title defense versus France’s Hugo Gaston, part of a draw that also includes Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, Daniil Medvedev and several potential dark horses such as Alexander Bublik and Jakub Menšík. Local favorite Alex de Minaur faces a tough opener against former Grand Slam semifinalist Matteo Berrettini, highlighting the depth and unpredictability of early-round Grand Slam tennis. With a strong American contingent and plenty of seeded players matched against tricky opponents, the first round promises plenty of action and possible surprises under the Melbourne sun.
On the women’s side, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka leads a powerful field looking to set the tone for her title bid, alongside elite competitors such as Iga Świątek and Coco Gauff, with seeded players all facing a range of first-round tests that could include rising talents and crafty competitors. The draw also features notable storylines, such as Venus Williams returning to the singles main draw at age 45. With defending champion Madison Keys back in the mix and a loaded cast of Americans, Europeans, and Australians taking to the hard courts, the women’s first round mixes high-stakes competition with plenty of intrigue as underdogs and favorites alike aim to start their campaigns strongly.
This is a great weekend of tennis that you will not want to miss; make sure to tune in and catch all the action.
Live stream 2026 Australian Open with Fubo: Start your free trial now!
Watch the entire 2026 Australian Open TV coverage with Fubo, where you can watch live television without cable on your TV, phone, or tablet. Fubo carries a wide array of sports and entertainment channels, including local sports packages and top national channels like ABC, FOX, CBS, ESPN, FS1, MTV, Comedy Central, and much more. The best part is you can try it out today for free.
First Round TV Schedule
Saturday, January 17th - 10 PM ET - ESPN2
Sunday, January 18th - 3:00 AM ET - ESPN2
Sunday, January 18th - 7:00 PM ET - ESPN2
Tuesday, January 20th - 3:00 AM ET - ESPN2
Odds
Men's Singles Winner
Jannik Sinner (−120)
Carlos Alcaraz (+180)
Novak Djokovic (+1600)
Daniil Medvedev (+3000)
Alexander Zverev (+3500)
Taylor Fritz (+6000)
Alex De Minaur (+6500)
Felix Auger-Aliassime (+8000)
Ben Shelton (+8000)
Lorenzo Musetti (+10000)
Odds Courtesy of DraftKings
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