The Australian Open 2026 is set to be a thrilling tennis spectacle, but the entry lists have already sparked intrigue and debate among fans and experts alike. Will the legends rise again?
Novak Djokovic, a tennis icon and 10-time Australian Open champion, is back in the mix, ranked world No.4. His remarkable achievement of reaching all four major semifinals in 2025 at his age is a testament to his enduring greatness. But here's where it gets controversial: some argue that his dominance in the sport has been a double-edged sword, creating an almost unbeatable legacy while potentially discouraging new talent.
In the men's field, the absence of rising star Holger Rune, currently ranked No.15, is notable due to his ongoing recovery from a serious injury. This leaves the door open for other players to make their mark.
The women's draw boasts an impressive lineup. Defending champion Madison Keys will face tough competition from the likes of Iga Swiatek, who aims to complete a career Grand Slam in Melbourne, and the formidable Coco Gauff, fresh from her Roland Garros victory. But the road to the title is far from straightforward.
Several top players will be missing, including Danielle Collins and Ons Jabeur, who are both on the sidelines for different reasons. Meanwhile, former world No.1 Karolina Pliskova and other talented players have entered using protected rankings, adding an element of unpredictability to the tournament.
The protected ranking system has also allowed four men to enter, including Chinese players Shang Juncheng and Zhang Zhizhen, Finn Emil Ruusuvuori, and local hero Thanasi Kokkinakis. This means Argentina's Thiago Agustin Tirante is the last direct entry for the men, ranked 101st in the world at the time of the November rankings.
For the women, French player Leolia Jeanjean is the last direct acceptance, ranked 103rd as of the December entry deadline.
With the stage set, who will rise to the occasion and claim the coveted Australian Open titles? Will it be a seasoned champion or a new star on the rise? The world awaits the answers as the tournament unfolds.
