The third day of the 2026 Australian Open promises high-stakes drama as defending champions Jannik Sinner and Madison Keys commence their title defences at Melbourne Park. With the remainder of the first-round matches set to be completed, Tuesday's schedule is packed with former champions and British hopefuls aiming to progress.
Defending Champions Eye Winning Start
Jannik Sinner steps onto court with history in his sights. The Italian world number two is attempting to secure a third consecutive men's singles title in Melbourne, a remarkable achievement only previously matched by the legendary Novak Djokovic. His campaign begins against France's Hugo Gaston on Rod Laver Arena. Sinner's quest is doubly significant this year, as he aims to halt the charge of his great rival, Carlos Alcaraz, who is pursuing a career Grand Slam.
On the same court, Madison Keys opens her defence of the women's crown. The American, who produced a stunning upset over Aryna Sabalenka in last year's final to claim her maiden Grand Slam, will be first up against Ukraine's Oleksandra Oliynykova. She will be followed by fellow American Ben Shelton and the returning former champion, Naomi Osaka, who faces Croatia's Antonia Ružić.
British Contenders Face Tough Tests
For the British contingent, the focus turns to Katie Boulter and Sonay Kartal. Boulter, a former British number one, earned her place in the main draw following several injury withdrawals and now faces a formidable opening challenge. She meets the in-form 10th seed, Belinda Bencic of Switzerland, on Margaret Court Arena.
Meanwhile, Sonay Kartal will take on the 31st seed, Anna Kalinskaya, on Court 13. Both players will be hoping to join compatriots Emma Raducanu, Cameron Norrie, and Arthur Fery in the second round, after the first-day exits of Fran Jones and Jacob Fearnley.
Full Order of Play and Tournament Schedule
Tuesday's action also marks the beginning of the men's and women's doubles tournaments. The day's schedule across Melbourne Park's courts is extensive, featuring stars like Stefanos Tsitsipas, Elena Rybakina, and Taylor Fritz.
The tournament schedule outlines the path to the finals. The second round begins on Wednesday 21st January, with the third round following on Friday 23rd. The women's singles final is scheduled for Saturday 31st January, with the men's singles champion to be crowned on Sunday 1st February.
Key matches to watch on Day Three include:
- Rod Laver Arena: Jannik Sinner vs Hugo Gaston; Naomi Osaka vs Antonia Ružić.
- Margaret Court Arena: Katie Boulter vs Belinda Bencic; Stefanos Tsitsipas vs Shintaro Mochizuki.
- John Cain Arena: Taylor Fritz vs Valentin Royer.
With champions beginning their journeys and emerging talents seeking to make their mark, Day Three at the Australian Open is set to deliver another thrilling chapter in the first Grand Slam of the year.
