Australian Open 2026: Full Schedule, Dates and Essential Guide
MELBOURNE, 24 January 2026 – The first Grand Slam of the year is set to deliver three weeks of world-class tennis and entertainment as the Australian Open returns to Melbourne Park. With an expanded festival format, a record prize pool and new fan experiences, here is your complete guide to the tournament schedule and essential information for 2026.
Tournament Dates and Structure
The 2026 Australian Open will be a three-week festival, running from Monday 12 January to Sunday 1 February. The event is split into two distinct phases:
Opening Week (12 – 17 January): This phase features qualifying matches, open player practice sessions, the new ‘Million Dollar 1 Point Slam’ challenge, and nightly live music as part of the AO LIVE festival. Ground Passes for Opening Week offer exceptional value, with adult tickets starting from $10.
Main Draw (18 January – 1 February): The primary tournament action begins on Sunday 18 January with first-round matches. The world’s top players will compete across 15 days of action, culminating in the women’s singles final on Saturday 31 January and the men’s singles final on Sunday 1 February.
Venue and Fan Experience at Melbourne Park
All action takes place at Melbourne Park, a 40-hectare precinct on the banks of the Birrarung (Yarra River). The crown jewel is Rod Laver Arena, flanked by Margaret Court Arena and John Cain Arena. All three major arenas are equipped with retractable roofs, ensuring play continues regardless of Melbourne’s unpredictable summer weather.
For 2026, significant fan experience upgrades have been introduced, including expanded shaded seating, new elevated viewing platforms like The Highline, and a revamped Courtside Bar zone. The AO LIVE music festival will run throughout the event, with headline acts including The Kid LAROI, Peggy Gou, and Spacey Jane performing at John Cain Arena and other stages.
Practical Information for Attendees
Tickets: Tickets are on sale to the public via Ticketmaster. A Ground Pass provides access to John Cain Arena (subject to availability), all outdoor courts, practice sessions, and festival zones. Day sessions typically start at 11:00 am, while night sessions begin at 7:00 pm.
Transport: Public transport is the recommended and most efficient way to reach Melbourne Park. Richmond, Jolimont, and Flinders Street stations are within a 10-minute walk, and Tram Route 70 stops at the city entrance. Limited paid parking is available at Yarra Park on a first-come, first-served basis.
On-Site Amenities: Melbourne Park is fully accessible, with ramps, lifts, and wheelchair seating. Fans can bring sealed food and non-alcoholic drinks, and free water refill stations are located throughout the grounds.
How to Watch the Australian Open 2026
In Australia, the Nine Network is the official free-to-air broadcaster, with coverage also available on its streaming service, 9Now. For international viewers:
- United States: ESPN and ESPN2 (streaming on ESPN+)
- United Kingdom: TNT Sports and discovery+
- Canada: TSN (streaming on TSN+)
- Europe: Eurosport
Key Facts and Figures
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | 12 January – 1 February 2026 |
| Main Draw Start | Sunday 18 January |
| Women’s Final | Saturday 31 January (from 7:30 pm) |
| Men’s Final | Sunday 1 February (from 7:30 pm) |
| Venue | Melbourne Park, Melbourne |
| Defending Champions (2025) | Jannik Sinner (Men’s), Madison Keys (Women’s) |
| Record Prize Pool | AUD $111.5 million |
| Singles Winner’s Prize | AUD $4.15 million |
| Official Ticketing | Ticketmaster |
Frequently Asked Questions
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets for the Australian Open 2026 are currently on sale to the public via Ticketmaster. Official travel packages have been available for some time.
What does a Ground Pass include?
A Ground Pass grants access to John Cain Arena (subject to capacity), all outdoor courts, practice sessions, the AO Ballpark, and festival zones like Grand Slam Oval. It does not include a reserved seat in Rod Laver Arena or Margaret Court Arena.
What happens if it rains or there is extreme heat?
Play continues uninterrupted on the three main arenas (Rod Laver, Margaret Court, and John Cain) thanks to their retractable roofs. In extreme heat, these roofs can be closed and air conditioning activated. Matches on outdoor courts may be delayed or rescheduled.
Who are the players to watch?
Defending champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys will aim to retain their titles. They will face fierce competition from world number ones Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka, alongside stars like Novak Djokovic, Coco Gauff, and Iga Świątek.