Australian Open 2026 Begins with Top Seeds and Venus Williams' Return

The Australian Open 2026 commenced on January 18 at Melbourne Park, featuring top players like World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz and two-time women's champion Aryna Sabalenka. Venus Williams, at 45, returned via wildcard, becoming the oldest woman to compete in a Grand Slam singles main draw, narrowly losing her first-round match. The tournament, broadcast live in India on Sony Sports Network, promises high-stakes matches and record attendance, with notable early wins by Alcaraz and Sabalenka and strong competition across the draws.