The first Grand Slam of 2026 is in the books and if the show put on in Melbourne is any indication of what’s to come, we’re in for quite the treat this season.
Here’s a recap of some of the most talked about Australian Open moments.
Alcaraz completes the career Grand Slam
Carlos Alcaraz became the sixth man in the Open Era to win all four of tennis’ crown jewels, joining Rod Laver, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. At 22 years of age, the Spaniard is also the youngest man to accomplish the feat.
Djokovic continues to defy Father Time
Novak Djokovic is proving that age is just a number. The 38-year-old advanced to yet another Grand Slam final in Melbourne after defeating Alexander Zverev in a five-set semi-final thriller. The Serbian did hint during his runner up speech that the end of his remarkable career is getting closer.
Rybakina back with the best where she belongs
After she captured her first Grand Slam at Wimbledon four years ago, everyone expected the Major wins to keep flowing for the supremely talented Elena Rybakina. She finally notched her second triumph at the AO and played great tennis in the process. Beating World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka at the biggest tournaments is no easy feat either.
Sabalenka showed why she’s the best player in the world
Aryna Sabalenka may have suffered her fourth defeat in a Grand Slam final, but before losing to Rybakina, she was dominant, a level that has become her norm. She has now won 20 straight tiebreaks at Grand Slams, breaking the previous record held by Djokovic.
Youth is served
Canadian Victoria Mboko (18), Iva Jovic (18), and Learner Tien (20) all reached the second week and showed that it won’t be the last time they reach the latter stages of a Major.
READ: Looking Back at Stan Wawrinka’s 2014 Australian Open Title Run
Monfils and Wawrinka say goodbye to Melbourne
Gael Monfils and Stan Wawrinka kicked off their farewell seasons at the AO. Monfils bowed out in the first round while Wawrinka showed flashes of his brilliance en route to a third round appearance.
Osaka’s showstopping entrance
Naomi Osaka unveiled another iconic piece of tennis fashion for her opening match at the Australian Open. ‘From the Sea of Imago’ is inspired by her daughter Shai’s excitement over jellyfish.
One Point Slam gets rave reviews
The debut of the innovative One Point Slam event during opening week was a hit for fans and players alike. The winner, amateur Jordan Smith, took home $1 million.
Roland-Garros, you’re up. See you in three months.
Feature photo by: Martin Sidorjak
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