Key Highlights: Five Key Aspects to Watch at the 2026 Australian Open

A new series highlights key elements to watch during each Major tennis tournament, starting with the Australian Open.

1. The Chance for a Unique Career Grand Slam Double

For the first time in tennis history, both a male and a female player, Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek, could complete a Career Grand Slam during the same Major. They each need to win the Australian Open to achieve this milestone. If Alcaraz succeeds, he would become the youngest man ever to do so.

However, the likelihood of this happening in Melbourne is uncertain. Alcaraz is entering this Major for the first time without his coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, following their recent split. Meanwhile, Swiatek has had a rocky start to her campaign, experiencing two losses in singles while Poland celebrated its first United Cup title.

The Australian Open hopes to be the stage for this historic achievement, but it’s possible that the next Career Grand Slam comes in Paris. Jannik Sinner is aiming for his first French Open title after last year’s close loss to Alcaraz in the final.

1. Jannik Sinner Aiming for a Third Australian Open Title

Sinner is looking to win his third consecutive title in Melbourne. Although he recently lost a one-point contest to amateur Jordan Smith, he remains a strong contender for a lucrative win in the upcoming tournament.

Having dominated hardcourt tennis, Sinner has won every major hardcourt title over the last two years, except for last year’s US Open, where Alcaraz ended his winning streak.

With Alcaraz facing challenges following Ferrero’s departure, Sinner’s chances for a title have improved. He and Alcaraz are expected to meet again in the finals, marking their fourth consecutive showdown in a Major. Given Sinner’s stable coaching situation, the odds might favor him this time.

1. Aryna Sabalenka Pursuing a Third Title in Melbourne

Last year, Aryna Sabalenka fell just short of winning her third Australian Open title and is determined to change that in 2026. She remains a top competitor in women’s tennis, despite the fierce competition.

While Alcaraz and Swiatek chase their Grand Slam, Sabalenka had a shot at a Calendar Grand Slam last year but missed out after losing to Madison Keys in Melbourne and Coco Gauff in Paris. She finally secured a Major by retaining her title at the US Open.

Following a controversial incident in late 2025, Sabalenka is likely more focused than ever on asserting her dominance at the tournament where she originally made her mark.

1. Novak Djokovic’s Opportunity for a 25th Major

Novak Djokovic aims to win his 25th Major title at the 2026 Australian Open, marking his last best chance to reach this milestone and solidify his place in tennis history.

Having won 10 times in Melbourne, Djokovic faces tough competition in recent years, particularly from Alcaraz and Sinner. Though he managed to defeat Alcaraz in a thrilling quarter-final last year, he has struggled to maintain consistent success against both of them.

If he can’t secure a win in Melbourne, it could be challenging for him to do so elsewhere, especially given the strong local support he typically enjoys.

1. Weather Conditions – Will It Affect Play?

The Australian Open often faces extreme temperatures, and after a short off-season, players will return to compete in what is typically the hottest Major of the year.

While temperatures in Australia have been mild recently, there’s a possibility of intense heat returning. As players struggle in the heat, there could be numerous withdrawals, highlighting the challenge of competing under such conditions.