Barty Set for Night of Legends as De Minaur Powers On at Australian Open
MELBOURNE, 21 January 2026 – Australian tennis icon Ash Barty is preparing for a starring role off the court at her home Grand Slam, while the nation’s current top-ranked man, Alex de Minaur, continues his quest for a deep run in the singles draw. Barty will join fellow legends Rafael Nadal and Dylan Alcott for the Australian Open’s ‘Night of Legends’, a special event celebrating the tournament’s 25-year partnership with Kia.
Legends Unite for Special Celebration
The ‘Night of Legends’ is scheduled for Sunday 1 February, the evening of the men’s singles final, inside Kia Arena at Melbourne Park. The event will feature interviews, stories, and fan interactions with the three champions. Barty, a Kia Australia Ambassador, will share the stage with 22-time Grand Slam champion Nadal and Australian wheelchair tennis great Alcott. Fans attending with a special ground pass will also have the chance to win prizes, including tickets to the men’s final and a photo session with Nadal.
Barty’s Recent Return to Rod Laver Arena
The announcement follows Barty’s recent return to the spotlight during the Australian Open’s inaugural opening ceremony on the eve of the tournament. The 2022 champion participated in a light-hearted exhibition doubles match, teaming with Roger Federer and later replacing Andre Agassi to face the Australian duo of Lleyton Hewitt and Pat Rafter. The event was a celebration of tennis history, enjoyed by a capacity crowd and watched on by contemporary stars including Novak Djokovic.
Key Facts: Ash Barty’s Australian Open Legacy
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Women’s Singles Champion | 2022 (defeated Danielle Collins) |
| Historic Significance | First Australian woman to win the title in 44 years |
| Current Role | Kia Australia Ambassador, participant in community initiatives through the Ash Barty Foundation |
| Next Appearance | ‘Night of Legends’ at Kia Arena, 1 February 2026 |
De Minaur Advances to Third Round
On the court, Australia’s top hope Alex de Minaur has safely navigated his way into the third round. The world No. 6 recovered from losing a tight first-set tiebreak to defeat Serbia’s Hamad Medjedovic 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-2, 6-1 on Wednesday. De Minaur will next face the winner of the match between 29th seed Frances Tiafoe and Francisco Comesana as he aims to better his quarter-final run from the 2025 tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the ‘Night of Legends’ with Ash Barty?
The event will be held on Sunday 1 February 2026 inside Kia Arena at Melbourne Park. It coincides with the men’s singles final night.
How can I get tickets for the Night of Legends?
A special ‘Night of Legends Special Edition Ground Pass’ is available for A$35. It provides all-day access to Melbourne Park and unreserved access to Kia Arena for the event.
What did Ash Barty win at the Australian Open?
Ash Barty won the women’s singles title at the 2022 Australian Open, becoming the first Australian woman to do so since Evonne Goolagong Cawley in 1978.
Who is Alex de Minaur playing next?
Alex de Minaur will play the winner of the second-round match between Frances Tiafoe (USA) and Francisco Comesana (ARG) in the third round.