AO exhibition boost: Svitolina-Anisimova and Zheng-Rybakina join the lineup for Fan Week

The countdown to the first Grand Slam of the season has entered its final phase, and the organizers of the Australian Open 2026 have revealed the detailed schedule for their spectacular Opening Week. What started as rumors has solidified into a luxury agenda: the week leading up to the official tournament has transformed into a must-see event, with confirmed dates to watch the world’s best in action at Rod Laver Arena.

The high-voltage action begins to rise on Tuesday, January 13, a day reserved for a fascinating clash of styles. German star Alexander Zverev, world No. 3 and 2024 finalist, will take the court to face the talented Italian Lorenzo Musetti (No. 8). It will be the first major test for both, in a duel that promises long rallies and an intensity worthy of the second week of a Grand Slam.

Wednesday, January 14, is shaping up to be one of the most entertaining days of the week, combining elite women's tennis with pure spectacle. First, Ukraine's Elina Svitolina will face the power of American Amanda Anisimova. But the main course of entertainment will arrive later that same day with the highly anticipated "One Point Slam." This event, which has generated global buzz, puts one million Australian dollars on the line in a sudden-death format: single-point duels where tension will be at its peak. Legends, current stars, and amateurs will share the stage in this innovative "tournament within a tournament."

Thursday, January 15, belongs to the world No. 1. The atmosphere promises to be electric when Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz faces off against local idol Alex de Minaur (No. 7). A packed stadium is expected to watch the Aussie crowd favorite attempt to halt the ranking leader in a match that, while an exhibition, will have plenty of pride and speed on display.

Finally, on Friday, January 16, center court will welcome back the King of Melbourne. The two-time defending champion, Jannik Sinner, will finalize his preparation against world No. 5, Canadian Félix Auger-Aliassime. It will be the perfect opportunity for Sinner to test his rhythm before officially beginning his title defense.

Adding to this stellar lineup is the clash of finalists between Elena Rybakina and Zheng Qinwen, completing a week where the format—two sets and a 10-point match tie-break in case of a draw—guarantees dynamism and excitement. With this schedule, Melbourne Park ensures the show begins long before the first official "Play" is called.