The Australian Open 2026, the opening event of the year’s Grand Slam calendar, promises an unparalleled blend of top-tier tennis, world-class entertainment, and a vibrant festival atmosphere, setting it apart from other sporting events. It will take place at Melbourne Park from January 12 to February 1, 2026, covering qualifying rounds, the main draw, and finals weekend. It will undoubtedly offer an unforgettable experience for tennis fans and those new to the sport. Whether you're going in person, enjoying AO Live Music, planning a trip, or just keeping up with events live, here's our guide with information on the schedule, tickets, travel tips, and more. If you're keen to improve your game, consider exploring tennis lessons near me.
Key Dates and Tournament Schedule
The Australian Open 2026 runs across three weeks and features men's singles, women's singles, doubles, and mixed doubles categories.
Tournament Overview
January 12 to February 1, 2026
Rod Laver Arena: Centre court for headline matches and finals
Margaret Court Arena: Early-round matches and doubles
John Cain Arena: Popular with Ground Pass holders for early-round sessions
Week-by-Week Breakdown
Here's what to expect during each part of the tournament.
Week 1: Early Rounds and Qualifying (January 12–18, 2026)
Men’s and women’s singles opening matches
Early doubles rounds
Ground Pass offers access to multiple courts and festival areas
Opening-week ticket and accommodation packages are typically available, combining access to early-round matches with stays close to Melbourne Park.
Week 2: Round of 16, Quarter-Finals, and Semi-Finals (January 19–30, 2026)
Round of 16 matches
Quarter-finals and semi-finals featuring the top seeds
Any Two Quarter-Finals Package: 2 nights’ accommodation with official Rod Laver Arena tickets to any two quarter-final sessions, from approximately $1,499 per person.
All Semi-Finals Package: 3 nights’ accommodation with official Rod Laver Arena tickets to all women’s and men’s singles semi-final sessions, from approximately $3,219 per person.
Finals Weekend: January 31 – February 1, 2026
Women’s Final: Saturday, January 31, 2026
Men’s Final: Sunday, February 1, 2026
Men’s Final Package: 2 nights’ accommodation with official Rod Laver Arena tickets to the men’s singles final, from approximately $2,809 per person.
Final Five Finals Package: 5 nights’ accommodation with tickets to all semi-final sessions and both singles finals, from approximately $6,459 per person.
Buying Tickets and Ticket Options for the Australian Open 2026
With a plethora of ticket options available for the Australian Open 2026, you have the power to curate your experience, whether you're interested in specific matches or certain times during the tournament.
Ticket Types
There are three main types of tickets available for the Australian Open: Ground Passes, Stadium Tickets, and Premium and Hospitality Packages.
Ground Pass
The Ground Pass grants access to outdoor courts, Kia Arena, 1573 Arena, and unreserved seating in John Cain Arena. Ground Pass prices vary by date and session, with lower-priced options typically available during qualifying, early rounds, and evening sessions. A Ground Pass is a great option if you're interested in seeing early-round matches, making the most of the festival atmosphere, and seeing what's on at the AO Live Stage.
Stadium Tickets
Stadium Tickets are specific tickets for matches in Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, or John Cain Arena. Stadium ticket pricing varies by arena, session, and round, with Rod Laver Arena sessions and later rounds typically priced higher than early-round matches on outer courts. Stadium Tickets are more like the kind you get for other sporting events. They cover a specific match or event, and prices vary by match and location.
Premium and Hospitality Packages
Premium and hospitality packages for the Australian Open 2026 offer the best (and most expensive) ways to enjoy the event. These packages can include on-court seating, exclusive lounges, and fine dining. They're excellent for VIP experiences and lots of other added perks.
Where to Buy Tickets
To buy tickets for the Australian Open 2026, it's recommended that you go to either Ticketmaster, the event's official ticket provider, or to authorised travel partners like AO Travel and Events Travel. Always check the official Australian Open website before buying tickets from third parties or partners.
Tips for Buying Tickets
You've likely talked about it during your tennis lessons, but as with any popular event, we recommend buying tickets as soon as possible, as they'll sell out fast. Verify sellers by buying from official sources or checking via the official Australian Open 2026 channels. With so much to see and do around the tennis matches, it's also wise to plan as much of your trip as possible, ensuring you choose sessions based on what you want from the tournament.
AO Live Music Festival
In addition to the world-class tennis at the Australian Open 2026, the AO Live Music festival adds another dimension to the whole experience. AO LIVE runs across opening week and finals week, with live music events scheduled from January 13 through February 1, 2026, including shows at John Cain Arena and the TOPCOURT precinct. The AO LIVE 2026 program features an expanded lineup of major international and Australian artists performing across opening week and finals week.
AO LIVE Presents at John Cain Arena includes performances from The Kid LAROI, Peggy Gou, Spacey Jane, The Veronicas, SOFI TUKKER, and Reneé Rapp.
AO LIVE Opening Week at the TOPCOURT precinct features live performances from Hot Chip, Elderbrook, Cassian, and The Presets.
AO LIVE tickets include access to live music events and may also include entry to Melbourne Park on the same day. This is highly recommended if you love music and food trucks and want to add even more entertainment to the experience. With a mix of pop, electronic, and dance music, there are many reasons to attend.
Travel and Accommodation for the Australian Open 2026
Whether you're already taking tennis lessons in Melbourne or just visiting for the Australian Open, Melbourne Park's central location makes it easy to get to. Here's how to get to the Australian Open:
Staying in Melbourne
Melbourne offers a wide range of accommodation options. Here, we've included recommendations for luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly options.
Luxury Hotels
Mid-Range Hotels
Budget-Friendly
fans attended the Australian Open.
In recent years, the Australian Open has consistently attracted over one million spectators, making it one of the most attended sporting events in the world.
Fan Experiences and Entertainment at the Australian Open
The Australian Open is famous for its festival atmosphere. Beyond tennis and music festivals, there are a few other things you should definitely check out if you go.
TOPCOURT Precinct
Interactive gaming, live entertainment, and trendy amenities for fans.
AO Ballpark
Kid-friendly games and activities.
Courtside Bar
Rooftop bar with drinks and prime views.
Food and Drink
Gourmet food trucks, pop-up bars, and dining options.
How to Watch the Australian Open 2026
As one of the world's biggest tennis competitions, there are plenty of ways to watch the Australian Open without being there. Here's how to keep up with the tournament as it progresses, whether you're in Australia or elsewhere.
Watching the Australian Open in Australia
The Australian Open is broadcast in Australia via major free-to-air and subscription sports networks. You can watch on Nine on your TV or use the free 9Now app to stream the matches from your preferred device. You can watch and follow the tournament live if you have a Kayo Sports subscription.
Watching the Australian Open Around the World
Here are some of the broadcasters elsewhere around the world. International broadcast partners vary by region and are confirmed closer to the tournament.
USA: ESPN, ESPN+
UK/Europe: Eurosport, Discovery+
Asia-Pacific: WOWOW (Japan), Sony Sports (India), Sky Sport (NZ)
Following the Australian Open Online
This is the Australian Open 2026, so be sure to visit the Australian Open website for live scores, match schedules, player statistics, and news articles on everything about the tournament, from scheduling to who the favourites are. The Australian Open App, available on iOS and Android, offers live scores, highlights, player interviews, and notifications for your favourite players' matches. AO Radio offers live commentary and match analysis, which you can find on the website and app. On socials, the Australian Open is on Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
Who's Going to Win the Australian Open 2026?
There will be some great matchups during the tournament, but who do you think will win?
Men's Singles Favourites
The men’s singles draw is expected to feature many of the world’s top-ranked players and former Grand Slam champions. Highlights from recent Australian Open men’s singles finals are available via the tournament’s official YouTube channel.
Several former Australian Open champions are expected to be among the leading contenders. Then there's Carlos Alcaraz. The Spanish player is a close contender for the title, and though he's yet to win this Grand Slam, he has defeated Novak Djokovic in a Grand Slam final before.
Women's Singles Favourites
Aryna Sabalenka returns to Melbourne as one of the tournament’s most successful recent competitors, while Iga Świątek and Coco Gauff are also among the leading contenders. Here are the highlights of last year's women's singles final.
Iga Świątek is also popular with the bookmakers. However, Coco Gauff has been playing well and is looking for her first Australian Open title. With an unparalleled mix of tennis, live music, and festival vibes, the Australian Open is not to be missed. Get your tickets as soon as possible to enjoy it all and have the best experience possible.
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Is there any free Wifi spots
Hi Carlo! Yes, the Australian Open typically offers free WiFi throughout Melbourne Park. Look for signs or check the official Australian Open app for details on how to connect. If you’re exploring outside the venue, many cafes, libraries, and public areas in Melbourne also offer free Wi-Fi.