Amidst a heatwave in Melbourne, the Australian Open organizers have revised the tournament schedule, particularly affecting the highly anticipated third-round encounter between Jessica Pegula and Oksana Selekhmeteva. This guide offers comprehensive details on tuning into the match, exploring diverse streaming alternatives, and presenting the complete competition calendar, along with a list of the leading contenders. Additionally, insights into prize money and recommendations for international viewers utilizing VPN services are provided.
The scorching conditions in Melbourne have necessitated a strategic shift in the Australian Open's timetable. Spectators can catch the third-round clash between Jessica Pegula and Oksana Selekhmeteva, now scheduled to commence at 6:30 p.m. ET at Margaret Court Arena. This adjustment, moved up from the original 7:30 p.m. ET, aims to prioritize player and spectator well-being by relocating certain matches to shaded courts equipped with roofs. Recent medical incidents among a ball girl and audience members underscore the urgency of these precautions.
For those eager to follow the entire tournament, ESPN2 will broadcast tonight's Australian Open coverage, with ESPN Unlimited subscribers gaining access to all matches through live streaming. Beyond this specific match, ESPN serves as the primary channel for the Australian Open in the U.S., with ESPN+ providing comprehensive streaming for Unlimited subscribers. Specialized coverage will also be available on ESPN2, progressing to ESPN for the critical semifinal rounds and beyond.
For viewers without traditional cable, numerous streaming services offer access to the Australian Open. DirecTV's Entertainment package, for instance, includes a broad selection of sports channels, such as ESPN, and offers unlimited cloud DVR storage. Fubo's sports bundle similarly covers a wide array of networks, alongside ESPN+'s unlimited plan and cloud DVR. For those seeking flexibility, Sling TV's Day Pass provides a convenient daily option to access channels like ESPN. International fans wishing to bypass geographical restrictions can utilize a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to access free streaming services like 9Now in Australia, ensuring they don't miss any of the action.
The 2026 Australian Open boasts an impressive lineup of top talent. In the men's singles, leading contenders include Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, Novak Djokovic, and Felix Auger-Aliassime. The women's singles draw features formidable players such as Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Amanda Anisimova, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina. This year's prize money is substantial, with both the men's and women's singles champions set to receive $4,150,000, while the runner-up will earn $2,150,000, and semifinalists will take home $1,250,000. The tournament's schedule is meticulously planned, with daily matches spanning from January 17th to February 1st, culminating in the men's and women's finals.
The Australian Open continues to captivate audiences with its blend of athletic prowess and dramatic competition. This year's event, marked by environmental challenges, highlights the organizers' commitment to player welfare and fan accessibility. From detailed broadcast schedules to diverse streaming options and the strategic use of VPNs for global access, every effort is being made to ensure fans worldwide can experience the thrill of this prestigious tennis championship. The impressive prize money and stellar roster of players further underscore the significance of the 2026 tournament, promising an unforgettable display of skill and sportsmanship.