Quarter-Finals Set At Australian Open After History-Making Fourth Round
MELBOURNE, 27 January 2026 – The final eight contenders in both the men’s and women’s singles draws have been decided at Melbourne Park, setting the stage for a blockbuster two days of quarter-final action. The fourth round concluded with commanding victories for the top seeds and historic breakthroughs for a new generation, all under the threat of a severe heatwave forecast to hit 45°C.
Top Seeds Progress, Young Stars Shine
Defending women’s champion and world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka continued her flawless 2026 season, defeating Victoria Mboko 6-1, 7-6(7) to reach her fourth consecutive Australian Open quarter-final. She will face American teenager Iva Jovic, who stormed into her first major quarter-final without dropping a set, dismissing Yulia Putintseva 6-0, 6-1 in just 54 minutes.
On the men’s side, world No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz booked his place with a 7-6(6), 6-4, 7-5 win over Tommy Paul. He will meet Australian hope and sixth seed Alex de Minaur, who delighted the home crowd with a dominant 6-4, 6-1, 6-1 victory over Alexander Bublik.
The story of the day, however, was 25th seed Learner Tien. The American became the youngest Australian Open quarter-finalist in 11 years with a stunning 6-4, 6-0, 6-3 upset of 11th seed Daniil Medvedev. He will next face third seed Alexander Zverev, who defeated Francisco Cerundolo in straight sets.
Confirmed Quarter-Final Schedule
| Women’s Singles | Men’s Singles |
|---|---|
| (1) Aryna Sabalenka vs (29) Iva Jovic | (1) Carlos Alcaraz vs (6) Alex de Minaur |
| (3) Coco Gauff vs (12) Elina Svitolina | (3) Alexander Zverev vs (25) Learner Tien |
| (6) Jessica Pegula vs (4) Amanda Anisimova | (5) Lorenzo Musetti vs (4) Novak Djokovic |
| (5) Elena Rybakina vs (2) Iga Swiatek | (8) Ben Shelton vs (2) Jannik Sinner |
Heatwave Looms Over Melbourne Park
Tournament organisers are monitoring a severe heatwave forecast to sweep across Melbourne, with temperatures predicted to reach 45°C. The extreme conditions are expected to disrupt play and test the physical endurance of all competitors, with schedule adjustments and additional player welfare measures likely to be implemented.
Other Notable Results
Four-time champion Novak Djokovic advanced to the last eight without hitting a ball after opponent Jakub Mensik withdrew. Defending men’s champion Jannik Sinner, women’s third seed Coco Gauff, and former finalist Elena Rybakina all secured their quarter-final spots with straight-sets victories.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Australian Open quarter-finals?
The quarter-finals are scheduled for Tuesday 27 January and Wednesday 28 January 2026. The women’s matches featuring Sabalenka, Gauff, Pegula, and Rybakina are on the 27th, with the men’s matches featuring Alcaraz, Zverev, Musetti, and Shelton on the 28th.
How can I watch the Australian Open in Australia?
Channel Nine and its streaming service 9Now hold the exclusive broadcast rights in Australia, showing every match live and free-to-air.
What is the biggest storyline heading into the quarter-finals?
All eyes are on whether Carlos Alcaraz can finally break his Australian Open quarter-final barrier, and if young history-makers Learner Tien and Iva Jovic can continue their dream runs against seasoned opponents Zverev and Sabalenka, respectively.