2026 Australian Open: First-Round Matchups Packed With Firepower
The Australian Open draw is out, and tennis fans are in for a treat right from the opening round. The first Grand Slam of the year is wasting no time delivering high-stakes drama, with several marquee matchups on both the men's and women's sides. From seasoned contenders to rising stars, the opening slate is loaded with intrigue.
Let’s break down the first-round matchups that deserve your attention.
Men’s Singles: Early Fireworks Across the Board
Alex de Minaur vs. Matteo Berrettini
This one has all the makings of a classic. Sixth-seeded Alex de Minaur, carrying the hopes of the home crowd, draws a tough opener in Matteo Berrettini - a former Wimbledon finalist who knows how to bring the heat on the big stage.
Berrettini leads their head-to-head 3-2, including a straight-sets win at Wimbledon in 2023. De Minaur has made big strides in his game over the past year, but Berrettini’s power and experience make this a true test out of the gate.
Alexander Bublik vs. Jenson Brooksby
If you like your tennis unpredictable and entertaining, this one’s for you. Bublik, now ranked inside the top 10, brings flair and shot-making wizardry.
Across the net is Jenson Brooksby, a crafty American who's been ranked as high as 33 and thrives in grinding rallies. Expect a clash of styles and plenty of momentum swings.
Alexander Zverev vs. Gabriel Diallo
Zverev draws a potentially tricky first-round opponent in Gabriel Diallo. The Canadian is riding high after winning his first career title at the Libema Open and reaching a career-best ranking of 33. Zverev’s experience gives him the edge on paper, but Diallo’s confidence and recent form could make this a tighter affair than expected.
Andrey Rublev vs. Matteo Arnaldi
Rublev is no stranger to deep Slam runs, but Arnaldi is the kind of player who can spoil the party early. The Italian has already reached the fourth round at a major three times - a clear sign he’s comfortable on the big stage. Rublev will need to be sharp to avoid an early exit.
Ben Shelton vs. Ugo Humbert
Talk about a heavyweight first-time matchup. Shelton, the powerful lefty and world No. 8, faces off against Humbert, who came close to cracking the top 10 in 2024.
Both players bring big serves and bold shot-making. This one could go the distance - and it could get loud.
Grigor Dimitrov vs. Tomas Machac
Two players with flashy games and something to prove. Dimitrov and Machac have both slipped in the rankings, but their talent is undeniable. This could be a sneaky-good match that sets the tone for a potential resurgence from either player.
Karen Khachanov vs. Alex Michelsen
Khachanov, a former US Open finalist, won’t have it easy against rising American Alex Michelsen. The youngster has been making waves on tour, and this matchup is a true test of where his game stands against a seasoned Slam performer.
Women’s Singles: Youth, Experience, and Everything In Between
Victoria Mboko vs. Emerson Jones
It’s a battle of teenage talent, and the future of women’s tennis is on full display. Australia’s own Emerson Jones takes on Victoria Mboko, who had a strong 2025 campaign with two titles. Expect plenty of energy, fearless hitting, and a glimpse of what’s to come from the next generation.
Olga Danilovic vs. Venus Williams
Venus Williams, the seven-time major champion, continues to defy time - but she’s got a serious challenge in Olga Danilovic. The Serbian brings a stylish lefty game and plenty of momentum. Venus will lean on her experience, but Danilovic won’t be starstruck.
Barbora Krejcikova vs. Diana Shnaider
This is a heavyweight clash right out of the gate. Krejcikova, a two-time major winner, faces world No.
11 Diana Shnaider - one of the most dangerous players outside the top 10. Shnaider’s aggressive game will test Krejcikova’s all-court craft in what could be one of the best matches of the round.
Mirra Andreeva vs. Donna Vekic
At just 18, Andreeva has already shown she belongs at the top level. But she’ll need to be locked in against Donna Vekic, who made a run to the Wimbledon semifinals in 2024. Vekic brings experience and firepower, and Andreeva will have to match her shot for shot.
Belinda Bencic vs. Katie Boulter
Fresh off leading Switzerland to a United Cup win, Bencic enters Melbourne with confidence - but Katie Boulter is no pushover. The Brit has a knack for raising her level against top players and could make this matchup much closer than the rankings suggest.
Final Word
The Australian Open 2026 is starting with a bang. From homegrown heroes to established stars and fearless newcomers, the first round is packed with must-watch tennis. Buckle up - the journey to the year’s first Grand Slam title is already delivering drama.