Who are the defending champions at the 2026 Australian Open?

Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys are the defending champions at the 2026 Australian Open.

Which top players face difficult first-round matches at the Australian Open?

Alexander Zverev and Sebastian Korda are highlighted as top players facing challenging first-round matches.

Who are some of the wildcard entrants for the Australian Open?

Venus Williams and Stan Wawrinka are among the wildcard entrants for this year's Australian Open.

Home / Sports / Zverev & Korda Face Upset Alert at Australian Open

Zverev & Korda Face Upset Alert at Australian Open

18 Jan

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Summary

Defending champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys are back in Melbourne.
Several top seeds, including Zverev and Korda, face challenging first-round opponents.
Wildcards Venus Williams and Stan Wawrinka add star power to the event.

Zverev & Korda Face Upset Alert at Australian Open

The prestigious Australian Open is underway in Melbourne, featuring the world's top tennis talent. Defending champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys are set to compete, with Sinner aiming for his third consecutive title. The tournament also welcomes notable wildcard entrants, including two-time finalist Venus Williams and 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka.

This year's opening round presents significant challenges for several high-ranking players. Third seed Alexander Zverev faces the aggressive Gabriel Diallo after a recent group-stage exit, while Sebastian Korda, struggling for form, will meet a determined qualifier, Michael Zheng. Both Zverev and Korda could face early upsets based on recent performances and their opponents' momentum.

Further potential first-round upsets loom for Emma Raducanu against Thailand's Mananchaya Sawangkaew and Frances Tiafoe against qualifier Jason Kubler. Francesco Cerundolo is also set for a tricky encounter with Zhang Zhizhen, who has a history of defeating top players. The competition is expected to be fierce from the outset.