Who is Sebastian Korda playing in the Australian Open first round?

Sebastian Korda is playing against fellow American Michael Zheng in the first round of the Australian Open.

What is Michael Zheng's Grand Slam experience?

Michael Zheng is making his main draw debut at a Grand Slam, having qualified for the Australian Open.

What is Sebastian Korda's record at the Australian Open?

Sebastian Korda has never lost in the first round at the Australian Open and reached the quarterfinals there three years ago.

Home / Sports / Korda Faces College Champ Zheng at Aussie Open

Korda Faces College Champ Zheng at Aussie Open

18 Jan

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Summary

Korda and Zheng, both American, meet in the first round.
Zheng makes his Grand Slam main draw debut after qualifying.
Korda has a strong first-round record at the Australian Open.

Korda Faces College Champ Zheng at Aussie Open

Sebastian Korda and Michael Zheng will compete in an all-American opening-round clash at the Australian Open 2026. Zheng, a promising talent representing Columbia University, secured his main draw spot by winning a challenging qualifying tie. This marks his first appearance in the main draw of a Grand Slam tournament.

Korda has had a mixed start to his 2026 season, with a quarterfinal appearance in Brisbane followed by an earlier exit in Adelaide. His record in Melbourne, however, is notable; he has never lost in the first round and reached his sole Grand Slam quarterfinal there three years ago.

This match is the first career meeting between Korda and Zheng, with the head-to-head currently standing at 0-0. Despite Zheng's impressive fighting spirit and college success, Korda is favored due to his experience and past performance at the Australian Open.